Families move into new homes

Published by Emma Baylis for Contour Homes in Housing and also in Communities

Contour Homes, part of Symphony Housing Group, has recently handed over the keys to 11 new homes on Vernon Street in Bolton - bringing affordable family homes to Bolton and bringing one family in particular together.

Paul Ainscow is a divorcee and has been living in a hostel for several months.  His two teenage children had opted to live with him but they had to remain separated until a suitable family home became available.  Thanks to this new scheme, the Ainscow family is now re-united.

“The kids are thrilled with the move,” said 47 year old Paul.  “We know this area well and they have lots of mates living close by. 

“It’s fabulous for me to move from the hostel to a family home again and it’s really handy for town as well as local shops,” said Paul.  “Even my doctor’s surgery is close by – we couldn’t have wished for a better location.”

The social landlord has developed this £1.2 million project with a £615,000 grant from the Homes and Communities Agency and assistance from Bolton Council to develop these new family homes for rent.

Louise Marsden from the company said:  “Working closely with the Council we recognised the need for high quality family homes in this area. We are delighted to have completed the scheme and provided much needed affordable accommodation to the local community”.”

The architect designed homes comprise a kitchen/diner, living room and downstairs cloakroom as well as three bedrooms, a family bathroom, a rear garden and parking.

Situated close to Bolton Town Centre, other local amenities include excellent public transport links and local shops less than half a mile away.

As well as developing the new properties, Contour Homes will also be improving the rear access road and altering the right of way to make the road a one way system which will also benefit the new residents.

14 year old Dana Ainscow a student at Smithills School added:  “I really like this house a lot.  It is quite quirky on the outside and inside it is really modern and I like the open plan feel it has.

“My brother Harrison is a student at Pendleton College and he is really pleased to be able to have his own bedroom again. 

“In fact I think we are both going to be having lots of friends to stay because the house is so big and we are really proud of it.”