Walsall’s disused garage sites become affordable housing
A project to convert whg’s disused garage sites into affordable housing has reached a major milestone, with the first new homes in phase 2 now complete.
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Harper Group have handed over to whg two homes built on derelict land at Westbrook Avenue in Aldridge.
These homes are two of 14, set to be built across four former garage sites, as part of the second phase of whg’s Small Sites Programme. The programme, which could eventually see hundreds of unused garage sites transformed, will help regenerate local areas and contribute towards sustainable and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Site included in phase 2 of the project include those at Fountains Road, Margam Crescent, Poplar Road and Westbrook Avenue.
John Bedford, Assistant Director of Special Projects, said: “These handovers represent the next phase of our ambitious work to breathe new life into small, disused pockets of land while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing. Phase 1 proved the immense potential of these sites, and Phase 2 builds on that success. Though these projects are complex due to their scale and location, their impact is profound - creating homes for those in need and revitalising neighbourhoods.”
Antony Rees, Managing Director of Harper Group, said “We are delighted to be working with whg on this ambitious project, providing much needed affordable housing for the Walsall area and redeveloping unused brownfield sites into pockets of vibrant living. These projects are a testament to how ingenious use of smaller plots are just as important as larger sites in helping the construction industry meet the government’s house building targets.”
“These projects also set the standard in how the implementation of social value initiatives can create real positive impacts to the local community, something that is at the core of Harper Group’s ethos. We welcomed students from Walsall College to site for work experience, ensured local sub-contractors and suppliers were utilised and provided apprenticeship opportunities for students from both Walsall and Dudley College.”
