£9 million revamp is almost complete
THE final phase of an ‘ambitious’ £9.4m housing project transforming empty streets of Victorian terraced housing is nearly complete.
Developer Placefirst has been working in partnership with Hyndburn council to breathe new life into Woodnook in Accrington which had a ‘high concentration’ of empty homes.
Previously set for demolition under Housing Market Renewal plans, more than 200 empty homes have now been refurbished and remodelled, creating a choice of modern two, three and fourbedroom properties.
The scheme has also been complimented by a range of wider public realm improvements, including a new park and village square.
Awarded Best NW Public/Private Partnership by Business Insider, the transformation has also delivered a diverse range of environmental improvements, including property facelift works, and, in some cases, repairs to the rear alleys.
The final phase includes the refurbishment and remodelling of 26 Victorian terraced houses and will be completed by the end of the year.
Placefirst said the homes are being stripped ‘back to brick’ and will feature ‘new modern layouts’ and a range of energy saving measures.
Martin Ellerby, head of new business and innovation at Placefirst, said: “It is with great pride that Placefirst announce this final round of housing investment in Woodnook.
“Through close collaboration with Hyndburn Borough Council, Woodnook has been transformed and now offers some of the best rented accommodation in the borough.
“Where once there were hundreds of empty homes and associated environmental problems, there are now over 120 purposebuilt rental homes, new public spaces and an enhanced high street.
“Woodnook was our first ever build-to-rent regeneration project and has demonstrated that, through long-term investment, it is possible to give areas like Woodnook a new lease of life.
“Hyndburn Borough Council have been a hugely supportive partner and we commend them for vision and understanding that has transformed Woodnook into the attractive residential neighbourhood we see today.”
Hyndburn council are also set to start work on an extra phase of property facelifts in the next few weeks.
The scheme will be largely focussed on 116 properties around Hudson Street, Nelson Street and Royds Street, and include stone cleaning, repointing, replacement rainwater goods, and new doors and windows where required.
Councillor Loraine Cox, cabinet member for housing and regeneration, said: “The facelifting work at Hudson Street and the lower end of Woodnook will be a welcomed and highly anticipated finale to the regeneration plans for Woodnook.
“Hyndburn Council in partnership with Placefirst have worked together to transform the houses and the neighbourhood making it an area where once again people are proud to call home.”