On Saturday 9 November 2024, directors of the James Charities Trustee Limited came together with residents of James Memorial Homes and family members for a bricklaying ceremony. Former chair of the board and former headteacher at St Clement’s Primary School, Christine Price, laid the ceremonial foundation brick accompanied by current chair, Lynda Matheson, and Nechells councillor Lee Marsham (pictured). Also in attendance were current and former staff members, Cher McLeggan, William Coffin and Dave Fisher, and Kyle Fowler of KKE Architects.
Works are expected to take a year and should result in ten new almshouse flats, plus a communal room, laundry and staff offices. Supported by Homes England, the development takes account of the site’s Victorian heritage and the need for green space in the heart of the city.