Residents get a free house » Housing » 24dash.com

Contour Homes in Bolton has given one of its 3-bedroom semi detached properties on The Pungle estate to the local residents association.

Richard Lister Contour Area Manager explains: The local community through the residents association requested our help in developing more accessible facilities in the area.

Contour Homes is one of the largest housing and regeneration companies in the North West and as such we have a good idea of what would work in an area like The Pungle. We suggested that, initially, the residents association take over one of our 3-bedroom homes which is something that we have done for other communities and they were delighted. The longer term aim is that a management committee is set up to run the community house and determine the activities to be delivered

As well as full use of the property, Contour has also donated £5,000 which will be used for set up costs and to pay for the first years utility bills. Contour has made it clear that the activities in the property will be at the discretion of the local community via the residents association or management committee. Providing the activities do not disturb neighbours on Pinfold Close and do not cause any damage to the property, the local community can use it in any way they wish.

Westhoughton town council has recently given planning to support the scheme which will be going to Boltons Planning Committee in the next few weeks.

Its great to see local residents so animated about future plans for the house, said Richard. I know that ideas so far include provision for young peoples activities. The residents association is very active I would expect the house to be put to a full and varied use for the benefit of the whole community young and old.