First phase of £1bn scheme begins with demolition of Hornchurch housing estate
Work has begun on what will be one of London’s largest regeneration schemes with the demolition of an old housing estate in Hornchurch, east London.
Bringing down the Napier and New Plymouth House site will make way for nearly 200 new homes, 64% of which will be affordable.
It is one of a dozen housing estates across the London borough of Havering which will be revamped by a joint venture between Wates Residential and the local council to provide 5,200 new homes by 2034.
The overall scheme, valued at £1bn, is one of the capital’s largest regeneration projects, which will see existing residents guaranteed a right of return.
The Napier and New Plymouth House site will deliver 197 homes and is part of the wider scheme’s first phase which includes redeveloping the Waterloo estate in Romford and Serena, Solar and Sunrise Courts in Hornchurch.
Wates said the total regeneration scheme would increase council rented accommodation by 70% and deliver 400 low-cost home ownership properties, effectively doubling the amount of affordable housing on the 12 estates.
The contractor promised to invest at least 10% of the overall project’s value in appointing local firms to work on the scheme, amounting to £100m-worth of work.
Kate Ives, development director for Wates Residential, said: “Working with local businesses is particularly important for us and we are delighted that Kilnbridge Construction Services has been appointed to carry out the demolition.
“As our long-term partnership with Havering Council progresses, we will continue to increase opportunities for residents and local businesses through our investment in education, training and skills.”
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