I was pleased to hear at the latest WBC Housing meeting that the Gorse Ride project, planned and approved by the Conservative-led council in 2021, is progressing. It will deliver 249 affordable homes replacing worn-out and cold prefabricated buildings. The first phase, Arnett Avenue, was completed in 2021. The first 16 homes in phase 2a will be delivered in Spring 2024 and it will be completed in 2025. The entire project finishes in 2028.
I have pushed the Council to see if they can do more to provide affordable homes in approved developments through our own housing companies rather than leaving the activity entirely to Housing associations as the resident satisfaction with our newly built affordable housing is generally very high and revenues are also generated for the Council.
When I was Executive councillor for housing and responsible for our housing companies I was very pleased to be part of the project team which delivered Phoenix Crescent and progressed Gorse Ride, its great to be able to provide high-quality housing for rental and shared ownership.
