Construction has begun on the site of the former fire station on Stuart Road in Pontefract where WDH will provide 37 high quality apartments to provide much needed affordable housing in the area.
The development forms part of Wakefield Council’s Reconnecting Pontefract Masterplan, which includes proposals for the redevelopment of priority areas around Pontefract town centre to better connect the historic town centre with the Castle, Racecourse and new leisure hub.
Built by Yorkshire based Caddick Construction on behalf of WDH, the new one- and two-bedroom apartments will create high quality, contemporary homes which reflect the industrial heritage of Pontefract.
The site has been identified as a gateway to the town and the three storey apartments will feature a creative and modern roof design, to draw visitors’ attention as they enter Pontefract town centre.
The properties, – which will receive £1.665 million funding from the Homes England Wave 2 programme – will all be available for affordable rent from WDH and are a precursor to the wider regeneration of the Horsefair area of Pontefract.
Andy Wallhead, chief executive of WDH, said:
“We share Wakefield Council’s ambition of providing high quality homes and creating confident communities that people are proud to live in. This development in Pontefract is just one of many projects that complements other regeneration plans in the district designed to meet the needs of residents now, and for future generations.”
Sue Young, executive director of Investment at WDH, said:
“It’s exciting to see work starting on site, helping to transform the town centre as part of Wakefield Council’s Masterplan.
By building new, energy efficient homes in places like Pontefract, where there is high demand, we are providing our tenants with a comfortable place to live. The central location of the apartments makes it a desirable place for those who enjoy being close to local amenities and provides affordable modern living.”
Cllr Denise Jeffery, leader of Wakefield Council, said:
“Creating new affordable homes is extremely important. Having a good home that is safe and warm gives stability and reduces pressure that people might be under, while supporting them to keep their jobs and spend locally.
This forms part of a much larger programme of activity led by the Council to increase affordable housing supply across our district, including the release of our own land to enable the delivery of high-quality affordable homes that meet the specific needs of our residents.
Not only is this project creating affordable homes in the area, but it is improving the gateway to Pontefract, paving the way for future regeneration. This will help to support our ambitions for a thriving town centre, with a great cultural offer, and as a fantastic place where people want to live and to visit.”
Richard Greenwood, director of housing at Caddick Construction, said:
“As a local company, we know the importance of providing quality, affordable housing that allows families and young people to live, work or commute from within their local communities. This scheme will allow that and bring a much-needed boost to the local economy. We are delighted to have started on site and be part of that regeneration story.”
The apartments are due to complete early 2023.