Ten new flats have transformed an area of unused land near Berrycroft in north Abingdon. The Vale Housing Association received £382,773 of funding from the Housing Corporation in order to build the much-needed affordable housing at a development known as Hazel Close.
Residents of the road, who come from the Vale of White Horse District Council’s waiting list, have now collected the keys to their new homes. For some it is the first time that they have had their own home while for others the flats mean they are able to live closer to friends and family. Mr Vincent Goulding, who is moving into one of the flats with his partner Susan Edwards, says: Without these houses and other ones like them there would be no chance for a lot of people to ever move. This scheme will benefit many people and make a big difference to their lives.
The official opening of the flats will take place at 1.30 on Friday 22nd April, when residents, local people and those involved in building the houses will have a chance to view the final result. Nicholas Morris, the Chairman of the Association’s board, together with two of the new residents, will plant a hazel bush to commemorate the road’s name.
John Martin, Head of Design at The Vale Housing Association, commented, I think that this scheme is an excellent use of a left over piece of land. I am pleased with the end result both for its appearance and the flat mix and design.
The flats also continue The Vale Housing Association’s commitment to environmentally–friendly construction. The development is the first scheme to be built by the Association to have 150mm cavity insulation, which reduces heat loss and keeps residents’ heating bills low. Most of the internal timber, used for features such as skirting boards and kitchen units, is made from recycled wood.