Work to improve more than 50 affordable homes in Horden is nearing completion as part of a major investment in the area.
Homes on the Ponyfields Estate are receiving new roofs and upgrades to walls as part of an extensive improvements to affordable homes in east Durham by believe housing.
A total of 55 homes in Naisbitt Avenue and Bruce Kirkup Road are seeing their original roofs completely replaced for the first time since they were constructed in the 1970s. The replacement includes re-roofing porches and outhouses at each of the properties. Upgrades to exterior wall surfaces are also being carried out at the same time.
The work is part of a £138m investment in existing affordable homes across County Durham by believe housing. More than 200 homes in east Durham are currently receiving external improvements as part of the project, which will reduce energy bills for tenants.
Investment Programme Manager at believe housing, Stephen Brown, said: “This is a really substantial upgrade for all of the homes involved, probably the biggest since they were built in most cases. Not only will the work help to lower household costs for tenants, it will also help to ensure that high quality affordable homes are available in Horden for decades to come.”
The refurbishment is being carried out in partnership with energy and regeneration specialist ENGIE. The firm was awarded the £138m contract by believe housing following a competitive bidding process based on value for money and quality. ENGIE has a long and successful track record of working in the area and extensive experience of delivering major projects, while minimising disturbance to residents.
Andrew McIntosh, Regional Managing Director for ENGIE, said: “We’re delighted to be progressing this refurbishment programme with believe
housing and supporting their ambition to future-proof and upgrade their estate.
“As a business, we’re focused on working with partners to improve the environment we live in and this work is providing a significant upgrade to thousands of homes right across County Durham. This is a huge programme, so there’s lots more to do, but this investment and our work will ensure high-quality and sustainable homes for all residents involved.”
Homes in nearby Murton have also been benefiting from investment by believe housing with bungalows in Bude Square receiving access improvements and new fencing this month as part of a separate project.
The 10-year improvement programme by believe housing in east Durham has already completed upgrades to homes in communities including Peterlee and Easington.
