Thornaby housing scheme shortlisted for award
21 November 2007
Mandale Park, a partnership between Barratt Homes, Haslam Homes, Stockton Borough Council (SBC), and NomadE5 Housing Association, is transforming the Mandale area of the borough which was once identified as one of the most deprived council wards in the UK.
An ambitious £90m rejuvenation housing project in Thornaby has been shortlisted in this year’s national Regeneration Awards.
The partnership, skilled and experienced in successful, large-scale urban renaissance schemes, was briefed to create a vibrant and sustainable community through the demolition of 578 poor quality properties, replacing them with 800 new homes for rent, shared ownership and sale.
Through this extensive development, which is being fully integrated into the surrounding community, the area is also benefiting from a new £1 million park plus local training and employment opportunities.
With energy efficiency at the top of the environmental agenda, the partners are using modern methods of construction at Mandale Park to create more energy efficient homes with a high standard of Eco rating. Although more costly to build, the properties reduce noise and speed up the build process and offer lower utility bills for residents.
The design of the streets also creates a sense of ownership for new residents – encouraging the development of a safe community and reducing the risk of crime and anti-social behaviour.
The £1 million linear park which is due to be officially launched soon will include cycleways, footpaths, trees, artwork, landscaping, wildlife havens and two sports pitches.
Bernard Rooney, Managing Director of Barratt Newcastle said: “We are delighted that Mandale Park has been shortlisted in these prestigious awards.
“Engaging existing and new residents, local businesses, schools and the wider community is the key to any regeneration and its sustainability. At Mandale Park our residents demonstrate a range of incomes and socio-economic status thus helping to create an integrated, sustainable community which will benefit the area now and in the future.
“Thanks to the proactive and considered approach of all the partners, Mandale Park is transforming lives. It is becoming an area where people are proud to invest, work and live.”
Richard Bass managing director of Haslam Homes North East added:
“Mandale’s extensive transformation to become a sought after location has been a phenomenal success. Through the skills, dedication and experience of the team involved and the support of the local community we have been able to create a neighbourhood where people choose to live and work. It is rewarding to receive this acclaim and we hope to use Mandale as a model example of a successful regeneration scheme.”
Councillor Steve Nelson, Stockton Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety, added: “This shortlisting is further acknowledgement of the success of Mandale Park.
“The scheme has brought about massive enhancement in the physical look of the estate and there has been a real improvement in people’s quality of life.”
Mandale Park was shortlisted in the Best Housing-led Project category of the Regeneration Awards organised by respected publications Regenerate, Building, Property Week and Building Design. The final results will be announced on December 3rd 2007.
