Kirklees Council’s new development of 10 two-bedroomed bungalows at Fernside View in Almondbury is taking shape.
The new homes will each have an allocated parking space, a small forecourt garden at the front and a private, secure garden at the back.
Two of the bungalows will also have additional features, including adjustable kitchens and adapted bathrooms to make them accessible to wheelchair users.
The site, which was formerly a garage court, has been disused for some time and had attracted fly-tipping.
Working with OSCO Homes, the main contractor, the council says the design and build is innovative.
The build starts in a factory and, when delivered to the site, the homes are quickly assembled and finished, reducing the number of people and deliveries to the site, lessening the construction impact on the neighbourhood. This method of building not only saves time but reduces the number of defects due to factory quality control measures.
OSCO Homes’ values are also in line with the council’s. OSCO Homes employs ex-offenders in their factories to offer a vital route into work for those who might otherwise find it difficult.
On a visit to the site, Clr Cathy Scott, Cabinet member for housing, said: “I am very pleased to see this development getting started. We are committed to providing quality housing for the people of Kirklees and these bungalows will provide a vital home for those in need. These homes will support older people in the community through our integrated approach with adult social care services.
“I am proud to say that we are using innovative building methods to not only complete this build more quickly than in a traditional build but that the result will be better quality and warmer homes. The jobs and skills opportunities that a project like this creates are also vital to our economic recovery. I look forward to seeing the completed development in the New Year.”
Richard Hall, project manager for OSCO Homes, added: “OSCO Homes is proud to be working with Kirklees Council on this innovative project.
“OSCO has also brought local economic benefits, by employing locally both direct on site and through sub-contractors, one of which is a social enterprise and charity that works supporting homelessness, and working with local apprentices through the life of the project to ensure learning opportunities are provided.”
The homes are expected to be ready to let in February 2022 and will be the first new bungalows the council has built in several years. The completed properties will be advertised and let through Choose ‘n’ Move.
It is now April and there is still no sign of any completed construction of the 10 new build bungalows. Can you give an estimate as to when completion and hand over will take place, it has been stated in the blurb, ” lettings are expected in February”. A news update would be good.