16/10/09 - Northampton to receive Decent Homes Initiative

The first phase of the work will see up to 450 homes brought up to the government’s Decent Homes Standard. By the end of the four-year programme, Northampton Borough Council aims to have improved the conditions of all council-owned homes in the town.

The first phase is due to be completed by March 2010 and is worth £3.7m. Phase 2 will see thousands more homes improved over the next four years. The contract for that work, which is worth up to £7m a year, is the subject of a separate procurment exercise being undertaken by the Council.

Decent homes are important for the health and well-being of those living in them and are a key element for any thriving, sustainable community. In order to fulfill the criteria of a decent home, a house should be warm, weatherproof and have reasonably modern facilities.

Paul Dockerill, Housing Regeneration Director for Thomas Vale Construction comments: “We are extremely proud to be working with Northampton Borough Council and the people of Northampton. Our team will deliver a programme developed from the local people of Northampton creating local employment opportunities and creating innovative ways of working with local supply chain members to maximise local work for local people. This is a priority for Northampton Borough Council and our aims and aspirations to deliver a successful project will reflect this with everyone working together as a team”

Thomas Vale Construction is already involved in the Sandwell and Wolverhampton Decent Homes Scheme, both of which are proving to be a success. The whole team are looking forward to the future challenges of the Northampton scheme and with the wealth of experience and knowledge that exists from previous partnerships; the workers are raring to go.

Councillor Sally Beardsworth, Northampton Borough Council cabinet member for housing, said:“Thomas Vale Construction has a proven track record on delivering Decent Homes and we are delighted to be working with them on this exciting first phase of our Decent Homes Programme.

“Now that the procurement process is complete, work to transform homes can begin. As well as improving homes and neighbourhoods, the work will give a much needed boost to the local economy by bringing jobs to our town.”