All systems go for housing contract

THE FINAL stages of a £130 million investment in public housing has been approved.

Oldham Council’s Cabinet agreed to conclude the last phase of the ‘Gateways to Oldham’ contract.

The decision means once the contract is signed, work can begin to transform the existing Crossley and Primrose Bank estates, plus three vacant “brownfield” sites at Coldhurst, Westwood and Fitton Hill.

The Private Finance Initiative (PFI) project will lead to the construction and refurbishment of 650 homes for social rent and 101 homes for sale as part of a 25-year agreement.

It will also help to regenerate key road and rail “gateways” into the heart of Oldham.

Inspiral, a consortium made up of the Rok Group, Regenter and Great Places Housing Association, was appointed the council’s ‘Preferred Bidder’ in October 2009.

In the first four years this scheme will deliver —

330 new homes for social rent

320 homes refurbished

101 homes for outright sale

As well as carrying out demolition, construction and refurbishment works, Inspiral will also provide and manage two modern, purpose-built community facilities, comprehensive environmental and highway improvements, and an excellent housing and estates management service throughout the 25-year contract.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for Community Services and Housing, said: “This is an ambitious project that is all about providing what people want — high-quality family homes.

“These plans were drawn up in full consultation with the local community and we are very confident that the Inspiral consortium will deliver an excellent scheme.”