Derelict site transformed into affordable homes

Published by lpriest for Progress Housing Group in Housing and also in Communities, Local Government

RESIDENTS have moved into brand new homes after a derelict mill site in Leyland was transformed into much-needed affordable housing.

The former Hulmes Mill site, off St Andrew’s Way, has undergone a major revamp, creating 11 affordable homes, as part of a joint partnership between New Progress Housing Association and South Ribble Borough Council.

The council pledged a grant of up to £180,000 to New Progress to help get the project off the ground and secure a much-needed scheme to meet demand for high-quality social housing inLeyland. With New Progress Housing Association investing over £550,000 and a further grant of £500,000 from the Homes and Communities Agency under the national affordable housing programme.

The scheme, which includes nine two-bed houses for rent and two three-bed homes for shared ownership, is a major boost for people from the town requiring affordable accommodation. New Progress has been granted a long term lease of the land under the agreement.

Work on the development, known as South View Terrace, started in February 2011 and the last homes were completed shortly before Christmas. The remainder of the site is still available for commercial development, ideally with a “landmark” building, but demand for this type of initiative is low at present because of the current economic climate. It is hoped the infrastructure put in place for the new housing scheme will help unlock the site’s potential and attract developers.                                                                                                

Philip Bowman, who moved into the development just before Christmas with his partner and young son said: "We have family inLeylandand it was great that we managed to get one of these houses.

"It's absolutely perfect for us. The house is in a great location, its really spacious and in a safe area for kids to play out.”

Bernie Keenan, Managing Director of New Progress Housing Association, said: "It's important that we have sufficient affordable housing for people who want to remain in or return to their home town so this development has been prioritised for people with a connection toLeyland.

"We are really pleased that the residents were able to move into their new homes in time for Christmas and that our strong partnership working with South Ribble Council and the Homes and Communities Agency has enabled us to build such a high standard of affordable housing in Leyland.”

Councillor Cliff Hughes, cabinet member with responsibility for strategic planning and housing, said: “I’m really pleased that this development has been completed and local people who wanted a home inLeyland have now moved in. By working successfully with New Progress, we’ve been able to provide high quality homes and allow more families to take advantage of the benefits of shared ownership.

“The scheme looks excellent and it’s greatly improved an area that has been derelict for nearly two decades. Developing the former Hulmes Mill site is an important part of our efforts to regenerate and boost the economic fortunes ofLeylandtown centre. We’ve created some much-needed affordable homes forLeyland, and we hope the scheme will help pave the way for further development on the site.”