West End Phase Four |
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Transforming a former crime hot-spot into green affordable homes. 
Project: West End Phase Four Project SummaryIn 1999, a housing-led regeneration project was launched to try to transform the West End area of Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, which had been blighted by antisocial behaviour, burglaries and drug-related crime. The main objectives of the development were to replace run-down Victorian terraced houses with high quality, affordable, energy-efficient dwellings in a safe and visually attractive environment. Over ten years, independent housing and regeneration organisation The Regenda Group have overseen four phases of construction. Lovell has constructed 43 affordable houses as part of phase four. Delivering today for tomorrowPeopleImproving the quality of life of local residents. PlanetMultiple award-winning affordable homes with energy and water saving features. ProfitShowing how regeneration can succeed even during a recession. Aspects of SustainabilityPeopleA design competition was held involving local residents, and the scheme was designed and constructed with affordably as a principal criterion. Through good teamwork and close liaison with the local community, a quality and diverse development has been created. Lovell registered the project with the ‘Considerate Contractors Scheme’ and arranged for community liaison to take place on a regular basis with the local community and schools throughout the contract period. Existing residents remained supportive through construction and the resulting good quality housing will encourage them to stay in the area. The project incorporated a Home Zone which used shared surfaces where no distinction is made between pavement and road and buildings, trees, planting and surface treatments were used to define spaces and create unique environments where cars are not dominant over pedestrians. The Home Zone was tailor-made to fit the character of the individual streets and spaces. PlanetThe development’s 43 affordable family homes incorporate a range of environmentally-friendly features, including water and energy-saving measures. A number of the homes have coloured roof cowls that let more light into internal hallways. The scheme also benefits from a new car parking area including visitor parking to ease congestion in the cul-de-sac at the rear of the site. A ‘green wall’ of native ivy and new trees has been included to attract birds and insects. ProfitModern Methods of Construction were adopted to minimise cost and reduce waste. For example, components were pre-finished in the factory before delivery to site such as painting of the windows and external doors. West End demonstrates that high quality regeneration projects can be delivered in a recession. The scheme has not been designed to be glamorous or ostentatious, but rather provides high quality affordable housing and an improved quality of life for residents. Best PracticeThe development has achieved an EcoHomes ‘Very Good’ rating and Secured by Design accreditation. The housing scheme has also received several national accolades, including a National Home Improvement Council award for most outstanding development using recycled urban Land and the Silver Standard in the Building for Life awards which recognise design excellence. In addition, the development in won gold at the 2010 International Green Apple Environment Awards, which promote environmental best practice. Quotes
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