Havebury Housing Partnership has reached the finals of the prestigious UK Housing Awards (UKHA).
The awards, jointly organised by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) and Inside Housing, are uniquely designed to pinpoint excellence and reward innovation – shining a light on the ingenuity, creativity and passion demonstrated by social landlords across the UK.
Now in their 19th year, this year’s awards attracted more than 250 entries from all over the UK.
Havebury is one of 8 left in the running for the ‘Outstanding development of the year – up to 24 homes’ award for their development in Mill Street, Mildenhall.
While our primary aim is always to meet local housing demand, our Mill Street development presented an opportunity to provide some characteristic homes which would not normally be available at an affordable rent rate.
Having purchased a former builders merchant shop and yard located in Mildenhall town centre, which had been derelict for ten years. The site, which adjoins a churchyard, included listed buildings of a range of ages, the oldest dating back to the mid-seventeenth century, alongside the more recent Victorian street-fronted building on Mill Street.
The challenge for the development was to convert these listed buildings into homes fit for a contemporary lifestyle and construct additional properties on the remainder of the site. These new homes would need to complement the neighbouring buildings and surroundings. Given the listed building element to this development, we appointed a building contractor with the appropriate specialist skill set for converting older properties.
The layout of the derelict Victorian street-fronted building was transformed using traditional building techniques and materials into five homes: two cottages, a maisonette, flat and house.
Scott Bailey, Development Director at Havebury Housing Partnership said: “We have achieved this redevelopment by improving the original structure whilst remaining sympathetic to the surrounding area. Not only has Havebury brought an old building back to life, but we have ensured that the building is well insulated which will result in fuel savings for tenants.
Paul Edwards, Director of Resources at Havebury added; “The redevelopment at Mill Street is another positive example of how Havebury is working with local authorities to provide much needed quality affordable homes with character. We are delighted that this development in particular has been shortlisted for a UK Housing Award and we look forward to meeting the judges as we move towards this final stage in the process.”
CIH interim chief executive Gavin Smart said: “The UK Housing Awards recognise the great work being done by housing professionals and organisations across the industry, but they also push us all to do better as a sector. We hope the achievements of our finalists will inspire others as they aim to provide the best possible services for residents and communities.
“Congratulations to all of the organisations that have been shortlisted, and best of luck for the ceremony – win or lose your work will help inspire us all to improve.”
Emma Maier, editor of Inside Housing, said: “The quality of the entries rose again this year so even to get this far is an amazing achievement. In the face of some really stiff competition, Havebury has shown it is performing at the highest level – well done!”
The winners will be revealed at a ceremony at the Lancaster London Hotel on 21 April.
