Page 59 - NACC – 2018 Yearbook

59
The
Chocolate
Quarter
raising the bar
Originally the home of Fry’s chocolate, St Monica Trust’s The Chocolate Quarter in Keynsham has transformed and revived the iconic factory buildings into a stylish, innovative development designed with retirement living, quality care and the community at its heart.
A SWEET HISTORY
Cecil Fry chose Keynsham Hams as the site for his new chocolate factory in 1922 because of its beautiful country location and accessibility to road and rail networks. Under the name
of J.S. Fry and Sons, and then Cadbury’s, the Somerdale factory produced some of the nation’s favourite confectionery for over 80 years. It was the biggest employer of the area, making up a total of 57,000 tonnes of chocolate each year in its heyday.
Opened in November 2017, The Chocolate Quarter o ers a new model of community living. Luxury retirement apartments and an inclusive care home, which serves a range of resident needs, are situated within elegant spaces with access to a wealth of impressive eateries and facilities, open to and enjoyed by residents, their friends and families, and the wider community.
THE HUB OF THE COMMUNITY
Throughout its time as the area’s primary employer, the Somerdale factory united the local community. From pantomimes and sports days, to youth clubs and concerts, it was at the heart of Keynsham life.
St Monica Trust is keeping up this tradition. As it preserves the iconic red brick buildings for future generations to enjoy, it’s created a
residential and retail hub that enriches the local community and the lives of every generation.
Across the three buildings, you’ll find:
Contemporary, luxury retirement living for those aged 55+
Charterhouse Care Home, also providing dementia, respite and end-of-life care
B Block pizzeria and Somer restaurant; open to residents and the public O ce spaces
Doctors’ surgery
Extensive facilities for residents and the community, including: hairdressers, barbers, cinema, gym, spa, swimming pool, nail bar and art and woodwork centre
SOMER
The newest eatery on the block, Somer o ers a very modern British dining experience at an
a ordable price. Led by St Monica Trust head chef, Gareth Cartledge, who was the 2008 NACC Care Chef of the Year champion, and catering development manager, Adrian Kirikmaa, Somer brings a modern Bistro feel to the community.
The expertise and vision of one of the South West’s most esteemed chefs, the Michelin- starred Josh Eggleton, was also harnessed to bring the Somer concept to life.
Across lunch, afternoon tea and Sunday lunch, the appealing menu reflects the seasons and showcases some of the nest local produce. Dishes range from best of British homemade pies and traditional sh and chips to nourishing homemade soups and the classic ploughman’s lunch.
Private functions, such as meetings, conferences and celebrations are held in Somer’s Cocoa Room and the fully-stocked bar makes it the perfect destination for after-work drinks.
Gareth Cartledge has played a huge part in developing The Chocolate Quarter’s fantastic food and drink o er. It’s great to see him doing so well and as a team we’ll keep moving this model forward. Adrian Kirikmaa
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FEATURES & INSPIRATION