Esh’s affordable housing division, Esh Living, has been appointed to deliver two refurbishment projects which will see 63 units converted into 105 one-bedroom flats and two hub offices.
Delivered on behalf of Home Group, units at Leam Lane and Deckham in Gateshead and the Clarence and West View Estates in Hartlepool will be re-modelled as part of the ‘Move on Project’, creating ‘hub’ and ‘transition’ properties designed for residents who require support to live independently.
The development will comprise the full re-modelling and refurbishment of existing units and all associated external works, drainage, and mains service works. Internal works will include damp proofing, electrical re-wire, kitchen, and bathroom replacement, installation of a new heating system and full decoration, while externally doors and windows will be replaced, roof works, and external wall repairs undertaken.
With a combined value of £4.6m, the two projects are funded by the Homes England ‘Move on Fund’ which is designed to provide necessary accommodation and support to enable independent living.
The regeneration of these areas will provide improved quality of accommodation and enhanced security measures, ensuring residents are safe and secure in their homes, as well improving the quality of life for residents, reducing anti-social behaviour, and improving the appearance of the estates.
Colin Ford, Construction Director at Esh Construction, said: “We are pleased to have been awarded these two key refurbishment schemes as part of the ‘Move on Project’. The importance of having a safe, secure, and comfortable place to call home has been emphasised in the current climate and we look forward to working with Home Group to deliver this much-needed accommodation in Hartlepool and Gateshead.”
Craig Ellis, Lead Regeneration Project Manager at Home Group, said: “Across the country there is a growing demand for smaller, one-bedroom affordable housing to help accommodate single person households of all ages. This will help people avoid under occupation, paying bedroom tax and the stress of getting into debt.
“We’re aware we have an oversupply of three-bedroom properties but very few smaller ones in these areas; this can often lead to higher turnover within the estates. With growing demand and pressure on support networks, good quality homes will help provide shelter to those desperately in need of a home, enabling stability and improving the wellbeing of our customers.”
Construction work is set to commence October 2020, with a view to the properties being ready for the first residents in Summer 2021.
We are pleased to have been awarded these two key refurbishment schemes as part of the ‘Move on Project’. The importance of having a safe, secure, and comfortable place to call home has been emphasised in the current climate and we look forward to working with Home Group to deliver this much-needed accommodation in Hartlepool and Gateshead.”
