Smoothfield revamp is going, well... smoothly

- Published: 30 June, 2006

Redevelopment of Butchers' and Drovers' Charitable Institution's Smoothfield Homes is well underway following planning permission go-ahead and the sale of the site.

The charity has long argued that its resources would be better utilised if its Hounslow site, in west London, were redeveloped. The charity receives several requests for financial help during the year but demand for the 30 flats it runs has dwindled in recent years.

The charity has sold the freehold of the site and leased back two blocks of flats to house the present 12 residents. The remaining blocks have been demolished.

Once the site is released by the demolishers, new flats will be built for the residents while the blocks currently housing them will be demolished. The redevelopment will consist of 100 flats for social housing and the private sector. "For the moment, we are encouraged at the way progress is being made," said treasurer Chris Oberst at the BDCI annual meeting.

Reporting on the charity's activities during the last year acting president, Kathleen Dennis, said the general purposes committee met 10 times to consider 81 applications for help. "These applications varied greatly in terms of the nature of the appeal, but the eligibility of successful applicants remains strong, with many beneficiaries providing evidence of over 30 years employment in the meat trade.

"New pensions were awarded to three applicants. We now have 171 pensioners. Nursing home top-up fees were awarded to three applicants. Other successful applicants were awarded grants for items as diverse as electric wheelchairs, fees for a special needs school, disability-adapted computer equipment and essential building work. These grants had an average value of £300, although many were made in collaboration with other charities," she said.

Just over £222,000 in benefit was paid out. Fundraising, after costs, plus legacies, donations and gifts, raised £107,600 with investment income generating almost as much. Investments values boosted reserves by more than £300,000.

Dennis thanked Miles Levy for his work as festival chairman over the last year and wished Richard Cracknell well in the role this year.