02/08/2011 - Longbridge Regeneration gathers pace!

The £17.2 million project has transformed the former ‘Nimmings Farm’ council estate located near the former Rover factory in Longbridge, Birmingham.

Birmingham City Councillor John Lines, the Cabinet Member for Housing said: "The completion of this scheme is a testimony to the excellent partnership working between the City Council, the HCA, Harden Housing Association and the local community. Together we have been able to provide mixed tenure homes for local people and a new neighbourhood park, creating a sustainable neighbourhood where people want to live."

The regeneration of Groveley Park is one of numerous major redevelopments in the South Birmingham area. The 172 new homes were made possible thanks to an £8.5 million grant from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Area manager for the HCA Midlands, David Rhead said: “We are really pleased to have supported WM Housing to deliver this ambitious scheme. It is pioneering zero carbon social housing in Birmingham as well as signalling a major step forward in the wider regeneration of the Longbridge area.”

All of the 172 properties have been built to the Code for Sustainable Homes (CfSH) Environmental standards, whilst two of the properties have been built as carbon-neutral homes, making them the region’s most environmentally-friendly homes. The carbon-neutral homes that have been constructed feature the use of photovoltaic panels which generate electricity by converting the suns energy into electrical energy, as well as rainwater recycling to ensure sustainability.

Chief Executive of WM Housing, Pat Brandum commented: “It is an exciting day to see the completion of what has been a successful and significant partnership development. Not only have we been focused on rebuilding homes but we have helped rebuild the confidence of the area. We are committed to developing communities that people are proud to live and work in and this has been a key project in demonstrating the extent to which this can be fulfilled.”

The opening event itself saw members of the local community turn out in force to celebrate the completion of the project, with resident Molly Garner who has lived on the estate for over 50 years mark the completion of the project with the cutting of the ribbon.

Ian Cox, Director of Housing (New Build) at Thomas Vale Construction added: “We are delighted to have been involved in this exciting redevelopment. We firmly believe that the resident input into the designs and layout, will make the project a lasting success!”