Transformation of housing estate is under way
Published on Wednesday 16th March 2011
Work has begun which will eventually transform the Elizabeth Road estate in Cannock.
Contractors have started work on the demolition of the first vacant properties. This will make way for the construction of 50 new homes which will shortly get under way in the first phase of the major redevelopment project.
The Council is working with Waterloo Housing Association, part of the Waterloo Housing Group, on the redevelopment. Funding support has been provided by the Homes and Communities Agency through the Kickstart programme, which is aimed at supporting high-quality housing schemes affected by market conditions.
The first phase of 50 new homes is due for completion in spring 2012 and will include a mix of two, three and four-bedroom properties for rent, shared ownership and outright sale. A further 100 family homes are planned in future phases.
Many of the existing homes on the estate suffered from low thermal efficiencies, insecure garden areas and inadequate or non-existent parking facilities. The estate itself has no play facilities, poor public open spaces and environmental features.
The redevelopment will change all this, with landscaped open space and a children's play area. The properties will have the latest energy-saving features.
Cllr Phil Freeman, Cannock Chase Council Housing Leader, said: "I am delighted that work has started on transforming the Elizabeth Road estate. I'd like to thank Waterloo Housing Association, the Homes and Communities Agency and ward Members for their help in pushing this project to this stage.
"When the redevelopment is finished, the estate will be unrecognisable, with quality homes, parking, play areas and open spaces."
David Pickering, Group Chief Executive of Waterloo Housing Group, said: "This is a superb housing project which will not only create much-needed new homes but also support jobs in the local construction sector.
"The start of work on the site is testimony to the tenacity and vision of the council and the strength of our partnership. It is also a mark of the commitment of the Homes and Communities Agency to support us. We look forward to carrying out this exciting regeneration scheme to bring a positive and lasting impact to the area."
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