Home run for First Base as Charles visits SHG/HCA development

Published by Brian Church for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Development

Prince Charles today visited Highbury Gardens in Islington as part of his quest to bring well designed homes to the capital.

Housing Minister Mark Prisk, HCA chief executive Richard Hill and London deputy mayor Richard Blakeway were among senior housing figures in attendance. 

Highbury Gardens is a £35m mixed tenure residential development. It was delivered by First Base, a residential development and investment company, in partnership with the Homes and Communities Agency and affordable housing partner Southern Housing Group.

The Prince is head of his own Foundation for Building Community which advised on the best way to engage the local community in the design process and helped choose the Highbury Gardens architect, Porphyrios Associates. 

First Base managing director Elliot Lipton said: "We’re delighted to play host to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, and look forward to delivering more schemes which attract such recognition.”

The 119 home scheme comprises a mix of private, first time buyer and affordable homes.

SHG Development Director Dale Meredith said: "Highbury Gardens has been a very popular scheme because of its attractive layout and appearance. It has also enabled a sustainable blend of part-buy part-rent and social rented homes, which are mixed in with the private homes."

The visit included the launch of "Quality: The Key to Delivering More Homes" by Charles' foundation, which highlights the importance of community engagement and quality development in the provision of new housing. Highbury Gardens is one of three best practice examples.

In the photo: Prince Charles meets Highbury Gardens resident Shehnaz Rolfe as First Base's Lipton looks on.