Within Grove estate to be redeveloped
THE Within Grove estate at Huncoat, near Accrington, is to be renovated after a “multi-million” pound refurbishment scheme gained approval from Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.
The scheme, which is a partnership between Hyndburn Homes, its parent firm Coontour Housing and the Homes and Communities Agancy. Hyndburn Homes is to dempolish 30 out of 87 properties within Within Grove that were transferred to
Contour Housing Group last year.
It will then complete a major refurb of the remaining properties, and some enviornmental im,provements on the site.
The work includes the installation of new kitchens, bathrooms and other facilities needed for the properties to meet Decent Homes Standards. Planning permission has also been granted to build five new bungalows on the estate at a cost of around £500,000 – £180,000 of which has been provided by the HCA. The houses will be rented to local residents aged 55 and over.
Cllr Peter Britcliffe, Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “We have fast-tracked this planning application to ensure that work can commence on this long awaited scheme as soon as possible. We see it as key to the success of the overall refurbishment of Within Grove and believe it will considerably improve on the current buildings which are an eyesore that negatively affect the reputation of the area.
“Thanks to the strength and innovation of the Contour Housing Group residents of Within Grove can look forward to a bright future.”
Nigel Fenton, general manager for Hyndburn Homes, said: “This area has always been earmarked for special treatment and I am delighted to confirm that a multi-million pound investment has been given the go-ahead.
“There is a shortage of bungalow accommodation in Hyndburn. This new scheme will go some way to alleviating pressure on the waiting list and most importantly kick-start the regeneration of Within Grove.”
The scheme is due to start on site this month, and it is hoped that the the bungalows will be ready for occupation within 12 months.
