A NEW chapter in the success story that is HSA unfolded with the official re-opening of the newly refurbished Hambleden House on Wednesday.

This was the culmination of a year of change, with multi-million pound refurbishments to the offices at both Alan Childs House, and the original HQ at Hambleden House.

The project has been a huge investment in creating a quality working environment for the staff as well as introducing new work methods fully integrated with the latest technology.

Common design principles were agreed for both buildings after consultations with staff representatives, resulting in light, modern offices which have a lively and uplifting atmosphere.

The refurbishments involved both buildings being completely gutted and internally reconstructed using environmentally friendly methods.

The official reopening of Hambleden House went ahead despite the absence of Lord Hambleden, who had been invited to unveil the commemorative plaque, and the Duchess of Norfolk, both unable to attend for health reasons.

In welcoming guests, including the Mayor and Mayoress of Test Valley and company pensioners, HSA chairman Major General Brian Pennicott said that from the time the company was founded in 1922 substantial changes had taken place that had greatly benefited contributors and staff to create a happy, efficient and successful business. "The message I get from staff is that they are very happy in their new working environment," he said.