Eight new two- and three-bedroom family homes for affordable rent have been unveiled on Woodbine Road in Pity Me, thanks to County Durham Housing Group.
The houses, built on the site of two demolished garage blocks, are the first purpose-built properties to be completed in the Durham city area as part of a £32m new-build programme by the group, which constitutes of 300 homes and stretches from rural Weardale to the coast.
Demand for affordable homes in the area heavily influenced the decision to build the six two-bed and two three-bed properties in Pity Me, all of which feature high levels of insulation, the latest heating systems and double glazing. They are expected to bring big savings to tenants when compared with older homes, particularly those in the private rented sector.
The Woodbine Road site was formerly occupied by two blocks of detached garages and the new houses have been designed to complement the existing residential area that neighbours them.
Pictured above are: Judith Common, Board Chair, and Bill Fullen, Chief Executive, of County Durham Housing Group cutting the ribbon to unveil the new affordable homes in Pity Me.
As part of its commitment to affordable housing, Durham County Council has also provided £195,000 in grant funding towards the development.
County Durham Housing Group Chief Executive, Bill Fullen, said: “Our new-build programme is delivering projects tailored to local needs, boosting communities right across the county.
“Tackling the housing crisis needs the right homes to be built in the right places, rather than concentrating solely on numbers. We mustn’t forget that housing isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about people. We can’t wait to welcome the first families into their new homes during the next few days.”
Close to transport links with Durham city centre and other parts of the region, as well as being at the heart of Pity Me, the new homes are expected to be in high demand. Construction of the development has been carried out by Strategic Team Group.
Kevin Shaw, Durham County Council Cabinet member for Strategic Housing and Assets, said: “We are committed to creating affordable homes for residents across Durham and we are delighted this development is now ready to welcome its first tenants.
“We know these homes are of a very high standard and will help those who live there make significant savings.”
Jason Green, Director of Operations at Strategic Team Group said: “We’re delighted to have completed our first properties with County Durham Housing Group and look forward to working together again in the future to develop much-needed local homes.”
