We are proud to have been recognised as one of the country’s Top 50 Biggest Builders in a new report published by Inside Housing magazine. This is the second time that we have been included in the annual ranking of social landlords developing affordable housing for local communities.
In 2021-22 we completed 376 new homes, including 230 for affordable rent, 69 for social rent and 77 for low-cost home ownership. An investment of £41 million underlined our determination to address the housing crisis in Staffordshire and Shropshire.
Among the key developments completed during the year was our £3.2 million project to create high quality homes for older people in Kinver, which has since been shortlisted for a national development award.
The Burgesses was constructed on the site of several bungalows that no longer met our high standards. It now provides purpose-built accommodation for 22 residents who enjoy access to facilities such as a spacious roof terrace.
Other significant schemes included the construction of 23 houses and apartments for affordable rent and shared ownership in Wheeldon Close, Stafford. Regeneration of this brownfield site delivered 15 apartments and eight three-bedroomed homes, including shared ownership properties helping buyers get onto the housing ladder.
This year also saw the launch of Wren House, providing 80 apartments for people aged 55+ close to the town centre.
These schemes were delivered against a backdrop of rising costs and a supply chain crisis. For some of the period under consideration, there was also a requirement for social distancing on the construction sites.
“We are delighted to have been included in the Top Fifty Biggest Builders”, said Housing Plus Group chief executive Sarah Boden. “We know that new homes have the potential to change lives, revitalise urban areas and help villages to thrive. Our Group is committed to providing much-needed homes for local communities and will take a significant step forward with the launch of a large-scale site in Staffordshire.
Undertaking ambitious developments in such a challenging period is a great tribute to the resilience of our Group and of all those involved in these projects.”