RESIDENTS HAVE SAY ON HOMES PLANS

Plans to redevelop a Borehamwood estate went on display to local residents during an open information session.

Ridgehill Housing Association is looking at plans to provide new affordable homes at Monskwood Gardens and Balmoral Drive.

Under the scheme, a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom homes and apartments would replace existing bedsit accommodation, which has become unpopular in recent years.

The move is designed to make best use of the site, where around 60 per cent of homes are currently empty. By providing a mix of new affordable housing, Ridgehill hopes to help meet local housing needs including the high demand for family homes.

Last Wednesday the housing association invited residents to view the proposals at the local community hall. Visitors were able to see the plans, including a 3D model of the site, and speak to the architects and contractors.

Ian Morrison, asset manager at Ridgehill Housing Association, said: “We had a really good turn out to the open session, with local residents interested to view the plans and talk to representatives.

“The majority of the feedback was really positive. Many felt that the proposals would improve the estate and that this was a more attractive and suitable scheme than previous plans.

“We are keen to talk with residents throughout the process, and listen to their views, and this open session was an important part of that dialogue.

“We have not yet submitted the proposals for formal planning consent and will be taking all comments on board to see if revisions need to be made before this happens.”

Prior to the open information session, Ridgehill had written to and met with the existing residents at Monkswood Gardens to explain the proposals on a one-to-one basis.

If the plans go ahead and are approved, all residents would be offered alternative accommodation in the area, and supported throughout the process of moving to their new homes while the redevelopment takes place.

The new scheme would provide a total of 59 homes on the site. These would be offered at affordable rents to those on the local authority waiting list, and through shared ownership to help people unable to buy a home outright, get a foot on the property ladder.

Ends.  Press release  November 2006