Pilot scheme for ‘flat pack’ housing development moves forward

Work is progressing on a pilot scheme which will see people living in ‘flat pack’ houses on a Coventry estate.

Two homes will be constructed at a factory in Birmingham and transported to the site in Littlethorpe, Willenhall, where they will be connected to services in June.

A two-bedroom house and a three-bedroom house are being built as part of WM Housing Group’s pilot project and could be the first of many across the West Midlands.

So far, steel structures have been built, the walls have been added and the ceilings have been craned on to the structures.

The development is being built in partnership with Totally Modular and Coventry City Council.

WM Housing’s director of development, Richard Whittaker, said: “It’s fantastic that we are piloting this modular home development.

“The properties have many benefits which include high thermal efficiency and reduced energy bills.

“The development could be the first of many and we are excited to see how we can use this kind of development in future if it’s a success.”

Cabinet member for housing and communities at Coventry City Council, Ed Ruane, said: “This is a great project and could really help tackle demand for housing across Coventry.

“The homes can be built incredibly quickly and transported to site in a short space of time too.

“It’s great to be working with WM Housing Group and Totally Modular in tackling the housing shortage across Coventry.”

The homes made by Totally Modular will have kitchens and bathrooms already installed when they are transported to the building site.

Founder of Totally Modular, Brian Maunder, said: “The development is progressing well with walls and ceilings already installed.

“The quality of the materials used for production are very high and when the homes are taken to the site they will be connected to several reinforced concrete pads as opposed to traditional foundations.

“We are looking forward to seeing the finished homes and the development is on track to be transported to Littlethorpe in June.”