Hackney Council to build two new tower blocks

Hackney Council is set to build two new apartment blocks as part of a bid to boost residential homes for tenants, after being granted planning permission, it has been revealed.

As part of the development, the towers will include a new community centre, a public square, space for shops and businesses, plus a community garden, and the potential for local apprenticeships for young people from the estate.

The two towers will be around 16 to 20 storeys tall and include 198 homes for private sale. They will also replace the existing council homes that are difficult to refurbish.

Hackney Council are currently consulting with residents over the scheme, through events, drop-in surgeries, surveys and other initiatives.

Commenting on the developments, Councillor Philip Glanville, cabinet member for Housing, said: "This is another step forward for Colville’s regeneration, and good to see a petition signed by 219 local residents in favour of the proposals, which will help pay for the new high quality Council homes for social renting on the estate."

A number of different rental options will be available to leaseholders under this new project, including shared ownership and social rent.

The local authority will also be offering an equity swap for a newly-built home to those that live on the estate and want to remain in the local area.

Ultimately, the scheme will provide 935 new homes. In addition, more than half of the total number of homes built on the new estate will be provided for social renting, shared equity, or shared ownership.

The local authority is currently in the process of regenerating 2,760 homes across the borough as part of one of London's largest schemes for building homes for social renting, shared ownership, and private sale.

The initiative is now in its fourth year with 201 homes for social renting, 20 for shared ownership/equity, and 42 houses for private sale built so far.

Published 8th September, 2014

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