| Newbury's top-of-the-range apartment complex for older people is a step nearer after the completion of a state-of-the-art glass atrium last week.
Sovereign Housing Association Chairman Nigel Fleming braved sweltering conditions on Thursday to help install the final pane on the 200ft glass ceiling at Carnarvon Place – the £10m flagship development for the over 55s.
With the 18-month build on the home straight, Berkshire’s best-run housing association gave some residents a sneak peak of the spacious homes, courtesy of the contractor Leadbitter Construction.
Sovereign Chairman Nigel Fleming said: “Although it’s my job to make sure that we deliver what we say we will, it’s not often I find myself in a cherry-picker 60 foot up in the air!
”We’re using quality materials throughout to make sure Carnarvon Place really does improve the quality of life for our residents, as well as make them feel safe.”
When it opens this autumn, Carnarvon Place will boast 85 apartments – three quarters with a spare bedroom – balconies, airy communal areas and entryphone system.
The centrepiece will be a stone sculpture – chosen by residents – by renowned public artist Richard Perry, of Nottingham. There will also be a mosaic in the atrium, and sculpted flower display in one of the rear communal gardens.
Built on former NHS land, Carnarvon Place will be officially opened by the Earl of Carnarvon in November. | 
