Hounslow embarks on regeneration programme

Hounslow Council is under-take comprehensive assessments of its 171 estates, as it embarks on a major regeneration programme.

The council’s cabinet approved the plans last week, which will help create 5,000 new affordable homes in the London borough by 2022.

The Convent Way estate will be the first to be regenerated, with the potential to create 1,100 new homes – up from 440 currently – a community centre, play areas and improved public transport links.

According to the council report, Convent Way was selected for early regeneration following an audit that showed it faced increasing maintenance bills, consistent concerns about nuisance behaviour like fly-tipping and that it would struggle to meet the council’s rigorous energy efficiency targets.

The plans that mean the regeneration of the estate will be shaped by the residents themselves, in an open conversation about what residents want for the future of the place they live.

The regeneration of the estate will lead to an increased number of council homes and the council said all existing tenants and leaseholders will be offered an alternative home on the new estate.

‘I am delighted with this chance to create new, high quality and energy efficient homes, as well as opportunities for new community and health facilities, shops, improved transport links, and green and leisure spaces,’ said council leader, Cllr Steve Curran.

‘It will take us one step further to delivering our housing pledge and our strategic aspirations for building more vibrant, thriving places where people will enjoy living.

‘It is vital that residents and the local communities support us in our aspirations. That is why we are putting them at the heart of this process – we need to build a partnership with them to develop a scheme that will better serve their needs, create jobs and improve their quality of life,’ added Cllr Curran.

‘I encourage all residents in Convent Way to come forward, provide their ideas and help shape the future plans for their estate.’

Last week, it was announced that three ‘at risk’ buildings in a West London park, jointly owned by Ealing and Hounslow councils, will be transformed into thriving community assets with help from the road operator Highways England.

Photo Credit – Free-Photos (Pixabay)