Watford Borough Council and Watford Community Housing Trust have confirmed the formation of a groundbreaking joint venture which will help to tackle the housing problem by developing much-needed affordable homes — with its first development having now received planning approval.
Hart Homes has been created to develop and manage quality homes for people in Watford and the surrounding areas. As one of the first such joint ventures between a local authority and a housing association, the new company offers a pioneering approach to addressing housing need.
By working in partnership, the two organisations will be able to access additional sources of funding for new homes and make more effective use of their land, helping to enhance Watford’s housing infrastructure by delivering modern homes fit for 21st century living. The newly formed company aspires to deliver more than 500 new homes over the next five years.
The first development to be delivered by Hart Homes has now been granted planning permission, and will see 36 residential apartments and 40 dwellings for temporary accommodation built on the land off Tolpits Lane in Watford (artist’s impression above). The apartments include a mixture of one- and two-bedroom homes, the majority of which will be available for affordable rent.
Once complete, the development will offer additional affordable homes and facilitate ongoing support for local households. The scheme will be spread across three blocks, with accompanying parking and landscaped green areas.
Tina Barnard, chief executive of Watford Community Housing Trust, said: “We are really proud to be entering into this joint venture with Watford Borough Council, which will provide much-needed new homes. We believe that Hart Homes will play a key role in providing a bright future for Watford.
“We are also pleased to have received planning approval for Hart Homes’ first development, which will help to meet the demand for affordable housing and demonstrates our commitment to driving improvements within our local community areas.”
Watford Borough Council portfolio holder for housing and property, cllr Stephen Johnson said: “Watford is a progressive town with a thriving economy and a positive future and we’re delighted that our joint venture will be supporting that growth.
“Demand for property in Watford continues to increase, which is making it tough for some of our local families who have struggled to keep up with rent or mortgage payments. One of our top priorities is ensuring we have quality, affordable homes, as well as vital temporary accommodation, for local people on low and middle incomes.
“Hart Homes will create additional opportunities for people to have their own home, their own space and their own community.”
