The first new residents of the Lechaud-Gardner residence saw a crowd under their balconies on Monday, October 14th, the day of the inauguration for this new site dedicated to young people. The residence offers 13 apartments for 18 individuals, representing a total investment of €1.7 million, with 70% public funding. Rents are modest and eligible for APL (housing benefits), all in a prime location near the center of Sauvagnon.
Managed by Habitat Jeunes Pau Pyrénées, the Lechaud-Gardner residence meets the needs of local businesses and provides housing solutions for young professionals. In addition to furnished apartments, the site includes communal spaces and a weekly on-site facilitator offering shared activities and individual support.
During the inauguration, various speakers highlighted the project's genesis. Mayor and intercommunal president Bernard Peyroulet emphasized "a history of cooperation" leading to "a result worthy of the effort," expressing pride in offering social housing in "such a setting" and acknowledging "the need to control land in the heart of the village."
His predecessor, Jean-Pierre Peys, recalled "a mythical site," mentioning the former château that protected British Colonel Gardner from Nazi searches.
Philippe Rondot, president of DomoFrance, acknowledged the crucial role of elected officials in realizing such ambitions but expressed concern that the social housing "model" might be "running out of steam," appealing to parliamentarians for help.
Thomas Huerga, president of Habitat Jeunes (HJPP), praised the work of architect Valérie Despagnet and stressed the mission of supporting young people towards autonomy while ensuring social diversity.
Sub-prefect Joëlle Gras, alongside deputy Josy Pouyeto, declared the event a "promise kept," noting it was "almost 2 years to the day" since the first stone was laid. Departmental councilor Charles Pelanne highlighted the "exemplary" nature of the project and the positive message the "history of the Lechaud-Gardner house" sends to young people.
Contact: Habitat Jeunes Pau Pyrénées (HJPP); Tel: 0559110505; Email: communication@hajpp.fr.
