An £18 million regeneration scheme that will bring 73 new affordable homes to Ripleyville, transforming the appearance of the Bradford neighbourhood, is now underway.
Esh Construction is working in partnership with Accent Housing to redevelop the former 1970s Ripleyville Estate following the demolition of more than 160 flats and bungalows last year.
The development will place an emphasis on multi-generational living with a variety of properties being constructed for affordable rent. Property types include smaller homes which are targeted towards single people or couples, as well as houses up to five bedrooms that meet the needs of large family groups.
All homes have been designed to be highly energy-efficient using a ‘Fabric First’ approach. There will be no gas supply to the scheme, instead air source heat pumps and photovoltaic (PV) panels will be installed. Each property will achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘A’ which will help customers to reduce their energy usage with a view to reducing the overall cost of energy bills.
Simon Woodward, Operations Director at Esh Construction, said: “This contract award marks the first scheme we have delivered with Accent in several years within Yorkshire, demonstrating our continued growth across the region. The redevelopment of Ripleyville is of huge significance in the local area and will deliver great benefit to the community for years to come. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Accent on this major regeneration project and look forward to delivering both social and economic value throughout the scheme.”
The decision to demolish the ageing flats was a unanimous one and followed an extensive consultation period with Accent’s customers and local residents. Former residents were rehoused to pave the way for the site’s regeneration.
Sarah Ireland, Executive Director of Strategy and Growth at Accent Housing said: “The regeneration of Ripleyville is a key development for Accent Housing. This project allows us to demonstrate our commitment to providing top-standard homes for our customers that truly meet their needs, and to be innovative. The new scheme will provide family-sized homes, as opposed to the previous small apartments, to meet the needs of multi-generational families. The scheme will meet the local housing need, particularly large five-bedroom homes and wheelchair-friendly bungalows.
“The benefits to the community, culture and economy of this area will be significant, with a refreshed focus on family living. 73 new families will be able to support local businesses, use transport links and attend local schools – all adding to a greater feeling of neighbourhood and community.”
Accent Housing worked closely with customers, Bradford Council and other external stakeholders throughout the consultation and planning stages. Ripleyville will be delivered as part of Accent’s Strategic Partnership with Homes England and has received a grant from the affordable housing programme 2021-2026.
This contract award marks the first scheme we have delivered with Accent in several years within Yorkshire, demonstrating our continued growth across the region. The redevelopment of Ripleyville is of huge significance in the local area and will deliver great benefit to the community for years to come. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Accent on this major regeneration project and look forward to delivering both social and economic value throughout the scheme.”
