Transformative £9.4m Lancashire regeneration scheme nearing completion

The final phase of an ambitious £9.4m housing project transforming several streets of Victorian terraced housing is now nearing completion.

Placefirst, the Manchester-based build-to-rent developer, has been working in partnership with Hyndburn Borough Council to breathe new life into Woodnook, a residential neighbourhood on the edge of Accrington town centre which had a high concentration of empty homes.

Previously set for demolition under Housing Market Renewal plans, Placefirst has refurbished and remodelled more than 200 empty homes, creating a choice of modern two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, complemented by a range of public realm improvements including a new park and village square.

The partnership between Placefirst and Hyndburn Borough Council has also delivered a diverse range of environmental improvements that are benefiting the wider Woodnook community including enhanced public realm, property facelift works, and, in some cases, repairs to the rear alley environment.

The final phase of development at Woodnook includes the refurbishment and remodelling of 26 Victorian terraced houses.

The new homes are being stripped ‘back to brick’ and, in addition to the new, modern layouts, the homes will benefit from a range of energy-saving enhancements.

Placefirst will have a choice of two- and three-bedroom homes, with the first expected to be ready by late October and all works completed by the end of 2019.

In parallel with Placefirst’s work on new homes, Hyndburn Borough Council is expecting to start work on an additional phase of property facelifts works within the next few weeks.

This latest round of environmental improvements will be largely focused on 116 properties around Hudson Street, Nelson Street and Royds Street. Typical works include stone cleaning, repointing, and new doors and windows where required.

Martin Ellerby, head of new business & innovation at Placefirst, said: “It is with great pride that Placefirst announce this final round of housing investment in Woodnook.

“Through close collaboration with Hyndburn Borough Council, Woodnook has been transformed and now offers some of the best rented accommodation in the borough.

“Where once there were hundreds of empty homes and associated environmental problems, there are now over 120 purpose-built rental homes, new public spaces and an enhanced high street.

“Woodnook was our first ever build-to-rent regeneration project and has demonstrated that, through long-term investment, it is possible to give areas like Woodnook a new lease of life.

New village square on Nuttall Street

“Hyndburn Borough Council have been a hugely supportive partner and we commend them for vision and understanding that has transformed Woodnook into the attractive residential neighbourhood we see today.”

Cllr Loraine Cox, cabinet member for housing & regeneration at Hyndburn Council, said: “The facelifting work at Hudson Street and the lower end of Woodnook will be a welcomed and highly anticipated finale to the regeneration plans for Woodnook.

“Hyndburn Council, in partnership with Placefirst, have worked together to transform the houses and the neighbourhood making it an area where, once again, people are proud to call home.”