Housing work is back on after developer issues
WORK has resumed on a Runcorn housing scheme for older people after the previous developer got into financial difficulties.
Livv Housing Group’s Sandymoor scheme was being built in partnership with Homes England before Warringtonbased Lane End Developments Construction Ltd entered administration 12 months ago.
Now Livv has hired contractor Leedex to complete its 44 one and two-bed apartments in Otterburn Street and five two-bed bungalows in Pitts Heath Lane for rent to the over-55s.
Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury joined Cllr Mike Ryan and Labour council candidate Neil Connolly on a visit to the construction site.
The MP, who has kept a close eye on the project, said: “I’ve been pressing for activity at this location for some time and obviously progress stalled when the previous builder went into administration.
“Following intervention with Homes England and the housing provider, it’s great to see things moving forward.”
Cllr Ryan (Daresbury, Moore and
Sandymoor) said: “It’s good news it’s started again. Residents have been waiting for over 12 months. I appreciate there’s been a lot of effort by Livv Housing, who’ve managed to get it back on track. People in the community are now looking forward to seeing the scheme completed and occupied.”
Mr Connolly, who is seeking election to represent the ward alongside Cllr Ryan, added: “This should be an area buzzing with people and at the minute it’s buzzing with builders. Don’t get me wrong, buzzing with builders is a positive sign but we need to get to the stage where it’s no longer a building site.”
Lane End Developments previously built the adjacent Sandymoor retail centre accommodating the Co-op, Chatwins bakery, Otterburns restaurant and Sandymoor Vets.
The company’s troubles caused delays to housing schemes not only in Runcorn but across the North West, including at Helsby and Northwich.