Derelict site to be transformed into 'much-needed' affordable homes in Oldbury
Work on transforming a derelict care home into 'much-needed' affordable housing for people in Sandwell is expected to start in the coming weeks.
Keon Homes announced it has completed the deal to purchase the disused Grafton Lodge in Oldbury which will be converted into 18 two and three bedroom properties.
Bosses said work to knock down the existing building is expected to start in late summer/early autumn.
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Planning permission was granted by Sandwell Council back in April this year and the develop said the new homes will be created with a high energy efficiency.
This will be the third time Keon Homes has worked with Sandwell Council, following the completion of 36 homes at Woods Lane in Cradley Heath and initial foundation works commencing on a further 34 social housing properties at Friar Park in Wednesbury.
Councillor Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Infrastructure, said: "Regenerating underused sites to create much-needed housing for local families is a key part of the council's plan to regenerate the borough.
"With a total investment budget of £3bn, our borough-wide investment strategy will see over 5,000 new homes built and 15,000 new jobs created."
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Matt Beckley, Partnerships Director at Keon Homes, added: "Grafton Lodge is the perfect example of what can be achieved when a proactive local authority, a strategic housing association - backed by Homes England funding - work together with a developer to bring an important piece of land back to life.
"Together, we have shaped a solution that will create 18 new homes that are vitally needed in Sandwell.
"But this is much more than about bricks and mortar. These aren't just properties that we are building, they are opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy a brighter future in the area."
Keon Homes is renewing its strong working relationship with Citizen Housing Group on this scheme.
Jon Wood, Citizen Housing Group, said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Sandwell Council, Homes England, and with the expertise of Keon Homes to bring forward 18 high quality affordable homes at Grafton Lodge.
"The homes will provide long-term security for families and individuals currently on the housing waiting list.
"Designed with sustainability and community in mind, they will all be built to high standards of energy efficiency, security and accessibility."
Grafton Lodge care home was threatened with closure in 2010 with the facilities deemed 'outdated' and 'too expensive to run' before eventually being deemed surplus to requirements more than a decade later.
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