New £3m scheme opens in Cockermouth

THE first phase of a landmark housing scheme to transform a flood-damaged area of Cockermouth has been completed, with work already underway on the second stage.

Bridge End Court, a £3million development aimed at the over 55s, comprises 38 two-bedroom flats on three floors, together with a residents’ lounge and managers’ office.

Phase two of the scheme at the junction of Gote Road and Wakefield Road, will include 15 three-bedroom houses and six two-bedroom houses.

The scheme was designed by Lancashire-based Croft Goode Architects for Home Group. It has involved the demolition of dilapidated housing stock on land on the north bank of the River Derwent, close to Cockermouth’s historic centre which suffered severe flooding in 2009.

Designed to meet level three of the government’s Code for Sustainable Homes, the properties will generate 25 per cent less carbon than is allowed under current building regulations. The design for Bridge End Court also features a timber frame construction with intelligent lighting sensors in the corridors.

David Croft, a director of Preston-based Croft Goode, said: “The development provides secure living to modern standards specifically for over 55s, as well as excellent views over the River Derwent and the north Lakeland hills.

“This sustainable development has been brought forward in consultation with residents and other stakeholders. It represents a significant investment in the area and will help revitalise a site which was need of regeneration.”

Elsa Brailey, Home Group’s development manager for the North West, said: “We had an official celebration to open Bridge End Court and one of the things all the residents, Home Group colleagues, civic dignitaries and neighbours agreed on was the quality of the building.

“We’re sure that the second phase of development will provide equally impressive properties.”