Peabody shortlisted as finalist for the 2009 Sustainable Housing Awards

Two Peabody estates have been shortlisted in The Sustainable Housing Awards 2009, organised by Inside Housing magazine.

Abbey Orchard, located near Westminster Abbey, was shortlisted in the Transformation category and Goldsmith’s Close, in East Acton, was shortlisted in the Resident Engagement category.

The awards scheme focuses on the best ‘green’ social housing projects constructed in the UK, and the organisations responsible for them. The trophies will be presented at an awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in London’s Park Lane on Friday 23rd October.

Peabody Chief Executive Stephen Howlett said:

"Abbey Orchard and Goldsmith’s Close are examples of what can be achieved when housing associations and residents work together to create a greener, better functioning environment for everyone. We are very proud that they have been recognised.

“Over the next ten years, we plan to invest over £40 million regenerating the open spaces of our estates across London, creating landscapes that are greener, safer and that inspire pride and a sense of ownership among residents."

Ted Stevens, Inside Housing’s events director and the organiser of the awards said:

“We’ve had a terrific response, with hundreds of entries and Peabody has done brilliantly to get shortlisted from such a huge field. Britain is leading the way on sustainable housing and innovative building techniques so we’re delighted we’re able to organise a ceremony to reward that organisations that are delivering best practice."

The sponsors of the awards include eps, United House, Axis, Sitex Orbis, Tarmac, Profile 22 and NHBC.

To find out more about the awards, the judges and each of the finalists go to www.insidehousing.co.uk and click on the Events section.

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Notes for editors

• Peabody was established in 1862 and is now one of the largest housing associations in London, providing affordable homes to over 50,000 Londoners, as well as being a charity and regeneration agency. Peabody’s mission is to make London a city of opportunity for all by ensuring as many people as possible have a good home, a real sense of purpose and a strong feeling of belonging. www.peabody.org.uk
• Abbey Orchard was built between 1882 and 1969. Blocks M-P were subject to a major internal and external refurbishment in 2007-08, including improved thermal insulation. As part of these works the previously tarmac courtyards have been brightened up with new soft landscaping.
• Goldsmith’s Close was built in the 1950s and acquired by Peabody in 1989. It has an active group of residents involved in gardening who have been working with Peabody and their contractors to help make the estate an attractive and tranquil place in which to live.