REDDITCH MP Chris Bloore visited an affordable homes scheme which is transforming the site of a disused church in Winyates.
The new housing scheme, known as St Gregory’s in recognition of the Catholic church which once stood on the site, will provide 25 new homes once construction is complete.
The St Gregory’s development will deliver 12 homes for social rent while 13 properties will be made available under a shared ownership scheme.
The scheme is being built by housing association GSA’s in-house construction services team.
Mr Bloore said: “I’m delighted to see the progress at the St Gregory’s development in Winyates.
“These 25 energy-efficient homes will not only provide much-needed social housing but also offer affordable options for first-time buyers through the shared ownership scheme.
“This project is an important step in addressing the housing needs of Redditch, while promoting sustainability through the use of low-carbon materials.
“I’m proud to support initiatives that both improve the quality of life for local residents and contribute to our broader goals of building a greener, fairer future for everyone in our community.”
The first stage of construction included the demolition of St Gregory’s Church. The church closed its doors in 2005 and fell into a state of disrepair thereafter.
Sadly the grounds of the church had become a magnet for anti-social behaviour in recent years.
The site has now been cleared and levelled out with the installation of highways and utilities infrastructure commencing soon.
Carl Taylor, assistant director of new business and growth, said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome Chris Bloore to our St Gregory’s scheme which will provide 25 much-needed homes in Winyates.
“As well as providing social homes, we are creating opportunities for would-be homeowners to get their first rung on the property ladder by releasing some of our homes in Winyates through a shared ownership scheme.
“I am grateful to all the GSA colleagues who have worked hard to ensure that shovels are in the ground.”
The new homes in Winyates will be built using prefabricated timber panels supplied by LoCaL Homes, GSA’s low carbon manufacturing facility based in Walsall.
