Next steps outlined for major redevelopment of New Park Village estate

The next steps towards a major redevelopment of council housing in New Park Village are set to be approved at next Wednesday’s (July 26) Cabinet meeting.

The proposals will see 205 out-dated residential properties, including deck-access maisonettes at Ellerton Walk and poor-quality bungalows on Valley Road and Shawbury Road, demolished and replaced with new energy-efficient homes for rent.

Previous consultation showed 75 per cent of residents who returned surveys were in favour of demolition and redevelopment, rather than refurbishment or doing nothing – and further consultation with residents was carried out between March and May this year to inform the project moving forward.

Cabinet members will now be asked to approve a revised two-phased approach to the redevelopment, which could see all 105 phase one properties empty by the end of 2023 - following permanent or temporary tenant moves to alternative city homes - and demolition starting in spring 2024.

While demolition takes place, final designs will be drawn up, a revised planning application submitted for approval and a construction contractor appointed, with development works anticipated to start in early 2025.

Environmental improvements will also be designed alongside the new homes, addressing car parking and road layout, and providing green space and new and improved play areas on the estate.

The £42.5million programme will be funded from the council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital budget.

Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Housing, said: “We are continuing to invest heavily in new and replacement council housing and this scheme will make a major difference to residents in New Park Village.

“It forms part of our housing plans to deliver good homes in well-connected neighbourhoods across the city.

“The maisonette blocks at Ellerton Walk are in poor condition, and the walkways around the estate have suffered structural damage and need replacing.

“In the long-term, the redevelopment will contribute to the improvement of tenants living conditions with the provision of energy efficient new

homes, better play areas and green space creating an environmentally friendly estate.

“The project team will continue to work closely with the New Park Village Tenant Management Co-operative (TMC), its committee members and the residents’ steering group to ensure a successful outcome to this critical regeneration scheme.”

The 1960s maisonettes sit within eight linked deck-access blocks, each with integral garages at ground-floor level.

The redevelopment scheme will be phased over several years to minimise the number of moves residents have to make.