Tower block to be demolished as part of £21m regeneration project

A tower block in Coventry is to be demolished and replaced with new homes over the next five years as part of a £21m regeneration project.

The regeneration of an area of Wyken will be WM Housing’s first major project as Citizen, which it will become known as in September.

The Vincent Wyles House tower block which is made up of 144 flats will be demolished and 93 new homes will be built in its place.

Meanwhile, 15-storey William Malcolm House, made up of 112 flats, will be refurbished. The five year project will be completed in 2024.

Kevin Rodgers, chief executive, said: “This is a fantastic project that will transform an area of Coventry.

“This significant investment represents the renewed commitment we have to improve our homes as we become Citizen. We are committed to working with partners to improve the lives of our residents living in Coventry.

“We know that there are a number of issues with these blocks because our residents have told us this. We believe they deserve better and we are determined to deliver that.”

The process of appointing a developer partner has started. Once appointed a consultation will take place with residents in Spring 2020.

Cllr David Welsh, deputy cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “I am pleased that this investment has been found to build and refurbish hundreds of homes in Wyken.

“We must continue to work together to further develop the social housing that is available to our growing population. It is a major challenge but any positive steps are very welcome.”