New council homes in Weeke, Winchester
The first residents have moved into the new affordable council homes at Symonds Close in Weeke. Half are local people who want to stay in their community and others are down-sizing, making available family homes in Weeke and elsewhere.
The 12-home, £1.8million development by Winchester City Council off Westman Road is an attractive mix of family homes and homes for tenants set around a communal green which was formerly an old garage site. The properties are built along a paved street with off-street parking so that children can play outside safely.
The Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Jane Rutter, said:
I am delighted to celebrate this lovely new mixed development of homes which, together with the significant improvements including a local play area, will make a great contribution to the local community.
The Council is committed to building homes for tenants that are of a very high standard and designed to be easily adapted for people with restricted mobility.
The new homes are extremely economic to heat as they are designed with high levels of insulation and air tightness together with solar panels on the roofs.
Cllr Caroline Horrill, Winchester City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing Services, added:
These homes are part of the Council’s ambitious programme to provide 300 new council homes in the District. Providing affordable housing is a Council priority.
Following a consultation with local people, areas of open space in Weeke have been significantly improved including an outside gym at Dean Park and trim trail equipment at St. Matthews Field. This scheme demonstrates the Council’s commitment to provide affordable homes as well as improve the area for all residents.
New council homes are allocated through Hampshire Home Choice.
For further information, and to register, please visit: www.hampshirehomechoice.org.uk