KHT launches £1.5m affordable homes project

A DISUSED area of land in Huyton, Merseyside has been transformed into a £1.5m development of 14 affordable properties for rent.

The homes, which include 10 one-bedroom apartments, are the first that Knowsley Housing Trust has built which have no communal space.

The designs means residents benefit from more privacy and security as well as saving money on service charges.

Built in conjunction with MCI Developments and with a grant funded by HCA, the development aslo has four mews style houses.

The majority of new homes built recently in the area have been for sale, so by building new homes for rent, KHT says it is responding to demand for housing for smaller families, couples and young professionals.

KHT acquired the land from the Diocese of St George’s Church, with the funds going towards the refurbishment of the church and its grounds.

Bob Taylor, chief executive of KHT’s parent company First Ark Group, said: “KHT’s aim is to provide local communities with quality, affordable homes with support services that help keep money in resident’s pockets.

“We feel the development at St George’s Road not only benefits smaller families and young professionals who are looking for property to rent near to local amenities, but it also has a positive impact on the local community.

“St George’s Church has been extremely supportive throughout the build process and we’re delighted that the funds from the acquirement of the land will go back into making the community a better place to live and work.”

Mick King, director at MCI Developments, said: “We’re very excited to be delivering new homes in Huyton. This is our second scheme with KHT and we are looking to build on our already good relations.

“Our main aim is to make affordable housing available to those in need and we are pleased to have the opportunity to provide high quality energy efficient homes for local people.”