Construction for Stanway veteran community hub and garden approved

Phoenix Heroes, a community interest company based in Colchester, suppors veterans by providing them access to outdoor facilities.

Its plans to build a veteran community hub, office, and garden in Stanway have been approved by Colchester Council. 

Genesis Group Construction Ltd were chosen to manage the project alongside Oak Structures Ltd who will create the oak structured community hub and office.

While Luke Millard at BGR Designs, who has been featured as a gardener on a recent BBC DIY SOS project, has kindly offered to design the garden area.

Gary Stockton, chief executive of Phoenix Heroes, said: “This is a huge milestone for us as we approach going into our seventh year, it is a game changer and will allow us to help more people year on year.

“Having our very own place in the heart of one of the largest military garrisons is amazing.”

Determined - Gary Stockton at the now approved site (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Stockton also thanked businesses, fundraisers, grant makers and people who donated for their “outstanding support” which made the project possible.

He has already helped thousands of people since setting up the charity in 2018, and spent 22 years in the Royal Logistics Corps himself.

Garden - An example of the allotment (Image: Phoenix Heroes)

An important part of the project is that “many skilled trades people” within the veteran community will be helping the construction, lowering costs and bringing people together.

Phoenix Heroes is also looking for the support of local businesses to work alongside the veteran community, and every company which helps will be given their own logo to be displayed within the BBQ area.

Over the next few weeks, donations whether material, financial, or with trade-skilled-help are welcome and can be made by contacting Phoenix Heroes here.