Nansledan Housing Project to Support People Facing Homelessness

Work is moving quickly on the Duchy of Cornwall’s first housing project created specifically to address homelessness, with the first residents expected to move in by late spring.

The scheme at Nansledan is being delivered in partnership with Cornish charity St Petrocs and funded by The Duke of Cornwall’s Charitable Foundation. It is being built on Duchy of Cornwall-owned land close to Newquay Orchard.

First Residents Expected by Late Spring

The first phase will provide accommodation with wrap-around support for up to 16 people. This includes two four-bedroom homes and eight one-bedroom apartments. The homes are expected to be completed in May and June this year, along with an on-site office for St Petrocs.

The focus is on breaking the cycle of homelessness through a person-centred approach. The aim is to build community connections through training and employment, leading to permanent accommodation.

The project draws on the expertise of Prince William and The Royal Foundation’s Homewards programme, which is focused on showing that homelessness can be ended. Homewards has helped shape the design of the scheme and is evaluating the project so that lessons can be shared with six other locations across the UK developing their own housing projects as part of a five-year programme.

Designed With Clients in Mind

Current St Petrocs clients have been involved in designing the interiors of the new homes. Staff and volunteers from the charity have also contributed to the process.

Henry Meacock, Chief Executive of St Petrocs, which has worked in Cornwall for 40 years and will manage the completed project, said:

“The Nansledan homes are an important addition to St Petrocs’ supported accommodation service in Cornwall and we’re delighted to see them nearing completion.

“It’s been exciting to see our clients involved in choosing the interior designs, helping to create homes that feel welcoming, secure and above all homely. We believe everybody has the right to a place to call home, and we have seen lives transformed as a result. We share the Duke of Cornwall’s ambition to end homelessness and very much look forward to welcoming the first residents.”

A Low Carbon Flagship

As well as being a first for the Duchy, the Nansledan project is intended to demonstrate low carbon impact in both construction and operation. The Duchy is using its design and development management expertise to trial low-carbon building techniques as part of its commitment to reaching net zero.

The build began last summer and is being carried out by CG Fry & Son, one of Nansledan’s housebuilders. Innovative materials include ultra low-carbon cement for the foundations, blockwork made with carbon negative aggregate, sustainable timber frames and pre-fabricated wall panels packed with UK-grown hemp insulation.

Early indications suggest the project will achieve net zero carbon in construction. The all-electric homes are designed to be efficient to run, with high insulation, solar panels and a domestic battery storage system.

Peter James, Duchy of Cornwall Project Manager, who is managing the build, said:

“This is a significant project for the Duchy and one of which we are incredibly proud. From the outset our aim has been to create high-quality homes that are thoughtfully designed, low carbon in construction and operation and above all, supportive of the people who will live in them.

“By working closely with St Petrocs, CG Fry and our wider partners, we’ve been able to combine strong social purpose with innovation in construction and sustainability. We’re delighted to see the homes taking shape and look forward to them playing a positive role in helping people move forward with their lives.”

The first residents are expected to begin moving in by late spring 2026.