The latest batch of new homes to be built as part of the council’s housing growth programme are now fully let and tenants are moving in.The 32 apartments in Richmond Hill form part of the council’s plans to build 1,000 new homes to rent.
The one- and two-bedroom homes are now known as Railway Close thanks to Richmond Hill primary school year one pupil Harry. Harry suggested the title as part of a competition to name the new street.
Built by contractor Houlton, the homes have a spacious open plan design and attractive open spaces.
To help tenants reduce their fuel bills and limit their impact on the environment, the properties benefit from triple glazing and high levels of insulation.
The good quality design and flexible space is a benchmark for high standards and sustainability in new housing.
Senior councillors, along with Harry and representatives from Houlton, visited Railway Close to welcome tenants to their new home.
Councillor Ron Grahame (Labour, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill) said:
“These new Council homes will really make a difference, helping to meet the demand for new affordable and high quality accommodation in Richmond Hill.
“I’m delighted that residents are moving into their brand new homes and wish them a very happy future at the heart of our community.”
Councillor Asghar Khan (Labour, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill) said:
“It’s great to see the hard work pay off and people moving into their new Council homes. We’ve been working to ensure that the homes are really high quality, both to live in and to fit in with the surrounding streets.
“By involving people in the local area, especially with school and Harry’s excellent name for Railway Close, we are trying to make sure that everyone feels that these homes are part of the community.”
Councillor Richard Lewis, executive member for regeneration, transport and planning said:
“The homes at Railway Close are part of a new generation of council homes that set the bar for housing quality.
“We embarked on this ambitious drive to build 1,000 new homes alongside working with developers, housing providers, the third sector and landlords to ensure we can provide a range of housing types and tenures.”
Councillor Debra Coupar, executive member for communities commented:
“This is the best part of the council house growth programme; welcoming people to their new homes.
“There’s great demand for homes like these in the area and across the city. By matching the types of properties we build to the needs of communities means we’re not just providing a roof over someone’s head, but delivering housing that meets people’s needs now and in the future.”
Paul Dickerson, managing director, Houlton added:
“We’re delighted to have worked with Leeds City Council on a flagship project like Railway Close which has created such interest in the community. We’re confident tenants will definitely feel at home here.”
Nathan Atkinson, Richmond Hill primary school headteacher said:
“Being able to get the pupils involved in a big construction project like this by naming the street was a great way to help them see the role they play in our community.”
