Vets Housing Project Opens It's Doors

A new housing block for homeless veterans has opened in Plymouth. The Nelson Project self-build scheme has taken nearly 16 months to complete and has resulted in 24 new homes on the site.

12 of them were built by former service personnel who were looking for homes. Project Manger Alex South said the veterans involved should be proud of their achievement. 

"To get to this stage is empowering, it's nothing short of a miracle"

Plymouth Council sold the land to build the project for just £1 and at an official 'housewarming' celebration, the agencies involved said it was a chance to give something back to the armed forces community.  

The veterans involved in the building have also completed a construction course with qualifications that will help them to find work in the construction industry. Local Labour MP Luke Pollard says the scheme has set an example that can be adopted in other areas.

"It has shown that investing in our veterans, giving support and encouragement - sometimes with difficult mental health problems pays off"

Afghan war veteran Cade Rich served in the British Army for 7 years and was medically discharged. He said he struggled to find his feet until he was introduced to the project.

"It's good to move in and finally enjoy what you've just built"