News Stories
September 2011 Press Releases
Plans submitted for £30m council estate transformation in Southampton
16/09/2011
Planning applications to build 200 new homes as part of Southampton City Council’s £30m estate regeneration scheme have been submitted by Lovell and First Wessex.
The partners have outlined their vision to build new homes and seven modern shops as part of the proposed redevelopment of Exford Avenue Shopping Parade, Harefield, Laxton Close, Sholing, and Meggeson Avenue, Townhill Park
This proposed scheme is part of the council’s programme of major estate regeneration projects across the city, which aims to build high quality, energy efficient homes for local families and provide vibrant local shopping facilities.
Councillor Peter Baillie, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “This is splendid news. With the planning applications submitted by Lovell’s and First Wessex we can mark another important milestone with the these three schemes in our estate regeneration programme - one we have all worked hard to achieve.”
“We would also not be at this point without ongoing support from the Homes and Communities Agency and with their continued financial support we will be able to give tenants safe and secure homes where they will want to live now and in the future.”
The proposals have been supported with £2.7m investment from the HCA, which will see 106 affordable homes delivered if the planning application is approved.
HCA investment and regeneration manager Mark Glendenning said: “The HCA is investing significantly in Southampton, in its estate regeneration programmes, the Centenary Quay development and some of the first new homes to be built by the council in decades.
“This scheme is important to us because it will deliver high quality new homes and shops to this part of Southampton as part of a major drive to regenerate the area. I’m pleased that plans have been submitted and we will continue to support partners through the course of this project.”
Commenting on the announcement, Steve Coombs, Regional Director at Lovell, said: “Lovell, working with First Wessex, is delighted to be part of the development of this landmark regeneration scheme, which will help to transform significant parts of Southampton. Community sits at the heart of everything we do at Lovell so we look forward to working with the people in the area to build a modern and vibrant neighbourhood in the coming years.”
Hazel Warwick, Development Director at First Wessex said: “First Wessex is excited to be involved in these three major regeneration schemes in Southampton. It further demonstrates our commitment to the city’s estate regeneration programme where we are able to breathe new life into parts of the city that need it most.
“These schemes will provide over 100 high quality, affordable and energy efficient homes, designed with a striking contemporary feel which will enable the residents to develop a community to be proud of.”
Trixie Neilson, Resident Member of the Estates Regeneration Stakeholders Group, said: “It is very exciting to be working with Lovell, First Wessex, Southampton City Council and the relevant communities in the area, to help improve their lives, homes and wellbeing - bringing a renewed sense of community.”
Southampton’s Estate Regeneration programme aims to build more good quality homes, create local jobs, improve education and people’s well being and reignite community pride.
The council’s Estate Regeneration Team is delivering a number of other major initiatives across the city, including Hinkler Place in Thornhill, and Local Authority New Build projects at Weston and Townhill Park. Consultation with the residents of this community at Townhill Park is ongoing to work with them to transform their estate.
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