Sixteen new social rent homes are helping families and individuals in Northwich access safe, affordable and energy-efficient housing, following the completion of Weaver Vale Housing Trust’s (WVHT) new development at Wakefield Court.
Mid Cheshire MP Andrew Cooper visited the development on Friday 4 September to see the new homes first-hand, meet representatives from WVHT and hear more about the impact the homes are already having on residents moving into the new community.
Located at Clifton Drive and Fairfield Road, the new homes include four one-bedroom apartments, three three-bedroom houses, eight two-bedroom houses and one four-bedroom house.
Wakefield Court is the first social rent development that WVHT has built and brought to market, supported by Homes England through grant funding from its Affordable Housing Programme.
Built by John Southworth Builders and designed by Halsall Lloyd Partnership, the homes meet modern energy-efficiency standards, with features such as air source heat pumps, solar PV panels on selected properties, and electric vehicle charging points – helping residents reduce energy usage and lower household bills.
Andrew Cooper MP said: “Visiting Wakefield Court today has really brought home the difference that high-quality social housing can make to individuals and families across our community.
“At a time when household bills remain a concern for many people, it’s great to see these new homes providing residents with affordable, secure housing that is also designed to be energy efficient and fit for the future.
“The continued investment in social and affordable housing is so important, giving more people the opportunity to find a safe home and build their lives here in Northwich.”
Wakefield Court highlights the vital role social housing plays in enabling people to stay close to employment, family networks and local services while providing long-term housing security.
Wayne Gales, Chief Executive of Weaver Vale Housing Trust, said:
“Wakefield Court is a great example of the importance and positive impact small scale regeneration can have within an established neighbourhood. These much needed socially rented homes will provide both security and stability for the families to each make their home.
“At a time when demand for affordable housing is so significant, every new socially rented home makes a real difference to people’s lives and we’re proud to welcome residents into these high-quality, energy-efficient homes, which will add real value to this Northwich community.”
The Wakefield Court development forms part of WVHT’s ongoing commitment to increasing the number of high-quality affordable homes across Cheshire and Warrington.