WORK has started on a new social housing development in Worcester, with five homes set to replace 26 garages.

Platform Housing Group – which has its headquarters in the Midlands – has started work on five new homes in Tolladine.

It is the social landlord’s latest development within Worcester, which will offer much needed affordable homes in the area. 

 The homes – which are due for completion early next summer – will be made up of four two-bed houses and one one-bed bungalow for affordable rent.

The scheme – which is costing £660,000 - has been made possible by grant funding through a Homes England funding programme along with money from the Recycled Capital Grant Fund, which is raised through the sale of increased shared ownership stakes to occupiers. 

Simon Vick, development director (west) at Platform Housing Group, said : “This latest development involves the demolition of 26 existing garages to make way for these much needed new homes. Car parking for eight vehicles will also be included.”

Prior to the development being granted planning permission in January of this year, the area was an abandoned and run down former garage site which attracted anti-social behaviour. 

Simon explained : “This new development will not only improve the area, it will also offer high quality and sustainable affordable homes that meets the needs of local people.  We very much look forward to completing the project and welcoming residents into their new homes.”  

Those involved in the new development include the developer Harper Group Construction, DJD Architects, employers agent AFA and funding partner Homes England. 

Michael Harvey, group commercial director of Harper Group Construction, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Platform Housing Group again, to bring much needed housing to the area of Tolladine Road. With Platform Housing Group’s mission to build a better future through investing in affordable homes, we are looking forward to working with the team to produce a high quality development.” 

 Simon added: “The new homes will form a high quality and sustainable affordable housing development that meets the needs of local people.

"Ensuring people have access to social housing is of vital importance in today’s world.  We look forward to completion of the project and welcoming residents into their new homes.”