A celebration is being held to mark the beginning of work to transform a derelict area of Bicester into 30 new homes for rent. Local residents and representatives from those involved with the site will gather next week to celebrate the official commencement of work on the old Vine Cottages site, marked by a ceremonial smashing of a champagne bottle.
The site close to the town centre is currently being cleared ready for the housing which is being built by The Vale Housing Association in partnership with Cherwell District Council. 20 sheltered flats, designed for older residents, will be included in the development, and many of the new tenants will be moving in from nearby Bryan House. The remaining 10 homes will be for people on Cherwell District Council’s housing register. Some of the derelict cottages on the site are being demolished due to their poor condition and replaced with two flats, whilst others are being refurbished to provide one-bedroom homes. A completion date for the site of December 2005 is planned.
John Holmes, a tenant representative at Charter Community Housing, comments, The development is a great opportunity for the new residents who will be moving in and will allow them to enjoy a modern mode of living. I hope everyone who lives there will be very happy.
The start-on-site event will take place on 5th October at Bryan House. Guests are invited to arrive at 12.30pm for a ceremony at 1.00pm and journalists and press photographers are welcome. Tenants of Bryan House, local councillors, representatives of The Vale Housing Association, who will own the new homes, Cherwell District Council, who are providing funding for the scheme, Charter Community Housing, who own Bryan House, and Leadbitter Construction will all be present.
Communications and Research Manager
The Vale Housing Association
01235 536001