An Ashton-on-Ribble property scheme funded by The Big PNE Sleep Out for homeless locals is near completion.

Local homelessness charity The Foxton Centre is transforming a three-bedroom terrace into two one-bedroom flats, which include a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living space.

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On Friday 15 November 2019, the centre raised £91,000 for the initiative during a charity fundraiser that saw over 300 people sleeping overnight on the Deepdale concourse, braving the wintery conditions to raise vital funds.

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Project manager Ron Ashley said: “During the property transition, we have had several hurdles to overcome.

“The pandemic has had a big impact on the availability of tradesmen due to lockdown, occasionally causing tradesmen to isolate. This has caused knock-on effects in terms of timescales when one trade is relying on the other to complete their task.

“The Suez Canal obstruction in March 2021 also caused massive delays in sourcing materials such as plasterboards, timber and electrical cables.”

“I can safely report that all of these issues are now behind us, and we are now on track to complete the transformation of the property into two one-bedroom apartments by December 2021.”

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Ashley said it is thanks to the efforts of the tradesmen working on the project and the 300-plus who attended the Big PNE Sleep Out that the project can go ahead.

The Foxton Centre, a charity supporting vulnerable Preston residents with homelessness, addiction and mental health, provides accommodation for homeless people identified through outreach work.

Housing First is developing the house as part of its ongoing work transforming local properties to provide secure accommodation for those looking to break the pattern of homelessness.

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Alongside the funds generated, many local businesses, individuals, and suppliers donated their time and expertise.

Kitchens were provided by Howdens, white appliances from Appliance Technology, flooring from Clean Cut Carpets and sound-testing from Redfan Solution.

• Electrics: Nigel Vale
• Central Heating Systems: Martin Fox Ltd
• Plumbing, bathrooms and kitchens: Anthony Bradley
• Plastering: Sean Lee
• Joinery: James Fletcher
• Double glazing, brickwork and waste removal: Dave Ball
• Painting and decorating: Anthony O’Neill
• Plans and drawings: Stuart Barnes
• Roof repairs: John Jackson
• Miscellaneous expenses and costs: Donation from the Screwfix Foundation
• Property sourcing and project management: Ron Ashley

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The Big PNE Sleep Out saw Preston North End Community and Education Trust, Biffa, and Blog Preston come together with The Foxton Centre to organise the fundraising event, coinciding with The Foxton’s 50th anniversary in 2019.

With renovations set for completion, further updates on the property will follow in due course.

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