The new affordable housing development in Leeds, initiated by the Leeds Federated Housing Association, aims to create 70 high-quality, energy-efficient homes in Oulton by 2026. The project has received partial funding from Homes England and a proposed £2.8m grant from Leeds City Council, highlighting the commitment to addressing the region’s urgent affordable housing needs and replacing post-war Airey homes with modern alternatives.
What is the new affordable housing development in Leeds?
The new affordable housing development in Leeds is a project initiated by the Leeds Federated Housing Association to create 70 high-quality, energy-efficient homes in Oulton. Partially funded by Homes England and with a proposed £2.8m grant from Leeds City Council, it aims to address the region’s urgent affordable housing needs and replace post-war Airey homes with modern alternatives by 2026.
In a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of Leeds, a new affordable housing scheme has reached a pivotal stage. The Leeds Federated Housing Association recently held a ground-breaking event which gathered both residents and councillors from Leeds City Council. This marked the commencement of a promising affordable housing development located in Oulton.
Partnership and Funding
Partly funded by Homes England’s Strategic Partnership with Accent Housing, the project aligns with the Government’s Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) 2021-26. It aims to deliver a total of 70 high-quality homes, addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in the region. The Leeds City Council has been proactive, with the executive board considering a substantial grant of £2.8m to augment the number of affordable rented homes within the development.
This development is not solely a business transaction; it represents a holistic community approach. Leeds Federated’s acquisition of the site last year was a carefully planned move to replace the prefabricated Airey homes – a post-war housing solution – with modern, affordable alternatives. While much of the original development was regenerated decades ago, Sugar Hill Close and Wordsworth Drive are the final remnants to be renewed.
Community Engagement
The redevelopment has been carried out in close cooperation with the council, ensuring that residents with regulated or assured tenancies are given priority for the new homes. Leeds Federated has also made diligent efforts to consider the housing needs of former residents. By autumn of the following year, the first phase of the development is slated for completion, with the initial 10 homes ready for allocation.
These new homes are not merely structures; they are being designed with sustainability in mind. Solar panels will be a standard feature across the development. Homes are constructed to achieve an EPC-B rating, underscoring high energy efficiency. “We want to ensure the new scheme is a place that people want to move to and enjoy living in,” expressed Kim Brear, chair at Leeds Federated Housing Association.
Councillor Jess Lennox, executive member for housing at Leeds City Council, echoed this sentiment. “Increasing the provision of good-quality, energy-efficient and affordable housing…ensures Leeds is a place that has opportunities and communities for all.” The council has shown an unwavering commitment to support residents through this transformative period, aiming to enhance the overall quality of life.
The Development’s Progress
The actual construction work is being executed by Termrim Construction, a company that prides itself on enhancing communities through their projects. “We are really pleased to be working with Leeds Federated to deliver this exciting new development,” stated Gerry Doherty, construction manager at Termrim Construction. There’s a shared enthusiasm, from the contractors to the residents, about what these new homes will bring to the community.
The redevelopment is expected to unfold in phases, culminating in 2026. This gradual process ensures meticulous attention to detail and allows for continuous engagement with the community. As the project progresses, updates and details are made available to the public through the dedicated website Sugar Hill Close and Wordsworth Drive.
Strategic Partnerships and Wider Impact
It’s important to note the broader context of this initiative. Homes England’s collaboration with Accent Housing under the AHP 2021-26 is a strategic move that leverages a grant total of £216m. Together with its partners, including Leeds Federated, the program aims to erect 2,809 new affordable homes across areas of palpable need.
Leeds Federated Housing Association stands as an embodiment of community-centric development with its portfolio of approximately 4,500 properties. Their mission aligns with the larger vision of making affordable housing accessible and desirable. Further insights into their work and ethos can be found by visiting www.lfha.co.uk.
Leeds City Council’s Role and Vision
Leeds City Council, a substantial local authority, is integral to this development. Its ongoing investment in housing, infrastructure, and public services is instrumental in shaping the city’s future. The proposed £2.8m Sugar Hill grant is a testament to the council’s dedication to improving living standards across Leeds. For more comprehensive information on the council’s policies and the upcoming executive board meeting regarding the grant, interested parties can refer to the council’s report.
In conclusion, the regeneration of Sugar Hill Close and Wordsworth Drive is more than just a housing project. It is a concerted effort by various stakeholders to uplift the community, foster a sense of belonging, and lead Leeds into a future where affordable homes are not just a necessity but a standard.
- The new affordable housing development in Leeds aims to create 70 high-quality, energy-efficient homes in Oulton by 2026.
- The project has received partial funding from Homes England and a proposed £2.8m grant from Leeds City Council.
- The development is part of an initiative to address the region’s urgent affordable housing needs and replace post-war Airey homes with modern alternatives.
- The redevelopment is being carried out in close cooperation with the council, prioritizing residents with regulated or assured tenancies for the new homes.
- The construction work is being executed by Termrim Construction, with a phased approach to ensure attention to detail and continuous engagement with the community.