Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Within Grove regeneration gets green light

by Ethos public relations

The Within Grove area of Huncoat is set to enjoy a major face lift thanks to a partnership between social landlord Hyndburn Homes, its parent company Contour Housing Group, Hyndburn Borough Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Nigel Fenton General Manager for Hyndburn Homes said: “This area has always been earmarked for special treatment and I am delighted to confirm that a multi million pound investment has been given the go ahead.”

In 2010, 87 properties in Within Grove were transferred to Contour Homes, also a subsidiary of the Contour Housing Group. Hyndburn Homes has budget provision to undertake the selective demolition of 30 dwellings on the estate and Contour Homes will be completing a refurbishment programme on the remaining homes. This will include new kitchens, bathrooms and any other works necessary to bring them up to Decent Homes Standard. Contour Homes will also be carrying out some environmental improvement work on the estate.

Local resident Jacqueline Britton said: “I have lived here for 12 years and the plans will make a considerable difference to our quality of life. Some of the properties are very out of date and everyone is looking forward to not only better homes but also an improved environment which will have a really positive impact on our lives.”

In addition Contour Housing Group has received planning permission to build five two bedroom bungalows at the entrance of the estate.

Cllr Peter Britcliffe, Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council said: “We have fast tracked this planning application to ensure that work can commence on this long awaited scheme as soon as possible. We see it as key to the success of the overall refurbishment of Within Grove and believe it will considerably improve on the current buildings which are an eyesore that negatively affect the reputation of the area.

“Thanks to the strength and innovation of the Contour Housing Group residents of Within Grove can look forward to a bright future.”

The new build bungalows will be architect designed and be available for affordable general rent to people over the age of 55. The £500,000 scheme has been supported by £180,000 grant funding from the HCA and Deborah McLaughlin executive director North West at the HCA said: “I’m pleased that we have been able to provide support to Hyndburn Council and Contour in developing these new homes. I am sure that that they will prove very popular with local people and, alongside the major refurbishments soon to be underway, will make a great difference to Within Grove”

All the partners have been working to tight deadlines in order to ensure the scheme can start on site in March. It is anticipated the bungalows will ready for occupation in March 2012.

“There is a shortage of bungalow accommodation in Hyndburn,” said Nigel Fenton. “This new scheme will go some way to alleviating pressure on the waiting list and most importantly kick start the regeneration of Within Grove.”

To read other news from Hyndburn Homes click here.

Posted at 7^th March 2011