25 February 2010
The HCA is playing a key role in providing the affordable homes at Highbury Gardens and has approved funding support of £3 million for the scheme through its London Board in March 2009.
Dawn Smart, Head of Development for Southern Housing group, said:
“It was a pleasure to mark the beginning of this important construction work at Highbury Gardens, and involve local artists to emphasise the community focus of the project. We are working closely with our development partners to meet the housing needs of local people, and will own a significant number of homes.
“It is great to be involved in providing much-needed affordable housing for local people, and it’s a huge achievement to be starting such a significant project in the current financial climate.”
David Lunts, London regional director at the Homes and Communities Agency, said:
“This scheme is hugely significant for the borough of Islington as it will provide 119 high-quality, affordable homes and contribute to the ongoing improvements to Holloway Road.
“The effective partnership between the public and private sector is enabling the delivery of essential new homes in line with local needs alongside affordable workspace. It’s great to see how our funding is having a positive impact on the community.”
Elliott Lipton, Managing Director of First Base, said:
“This development will play a major role in the wider regeneration of the local community. We wanted to make a bold statement about the progress of this important housing project and felt that graffiti would provide a powerful and artistic way to do this while also celebrating the rich diversity and urban environment of Holloway Road.
“This progress achieved with this scheme is a great example of how effective collaboration can deliver much-needed new homes in the capital. Now more than ever it’s important that the private and public sectors continue to work in partnership to maintain momentum in the current market.”
Ed Morgan, Mansell’s Managing Director - London Special Projects, said:
“The use of innovative modern methods of construction in the development of this scheme, combined with traditional skills and materials, will ensure the delivery of high-quality, well-designed homes on time and on budget. Incorporating leading sustainability credentials will also allow residents to lead greener lifestyles and benefit from reduced energy bills.”
Completion of this project is expected in summer 2011.