Six new affordable and sustainable homes built on the site of a former day centre have been completed.
Councillor Shiraz Khan officially took possession of the new homes on behalf of Derby City Council at a handover ceremony at Brentford Drive, Mackworth on Wednesday 16 July.
The project saw the demolition of two older properties on a site identified as suitable for redevelopment to make way for the modern, energy-efficient residences which will help address the city's housing needs.
The six two-bedroom homes, funded by the Council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme, are owned by the Council and managed by Derby Homes.
Built by appointed contractor Mercer Building Solutions Limited, these homes have been given A-rated Energy Performance Certificates due to high levels of insulation, air source heat pumps, and photovoltaic panels, all designed to keep energy bills low and to reduce carbon emissions. Each house also includes off-road parking for one car and car charging points.
Providing new council homes is a key priority for the Council to address the large numbers waiting for suitable properties. As of 30 September 2024, 8,030 applicants were actively looking for affordable homes through the Council’s lettings system, Homefinder.
Councillor Shiraz Khan, Derby City Council said:
It is no secret that the UK is facing a major housing shortage, particularly for those seeking affordable accommodation to rent.
In Derby, the need for more affordable housing is acute, and that's why creating new Council homes is so vital. These properties play a key role in helping us meet some of that pressing demand, offering our tenants not just a roof over their heads, but a high-quality, modern, and energy-efficient living space.
We're dedicated to increasing our affordable housing provision, because we firmly believe that everyone deserves a secure and comfortable home.
A lack of suitable and available land is one of the reasons for the shortage of properties, and the Council continually reviews its underused assets to assess their potential for redevelopment. Last year saw 208 additional affordable homes provided in the city and 102 of those were delivered by Derby City Council.
Katy Mercer, Director at Mercer Building Solutions Ltd said:
We’re incredibly proud to have delivered these high-quality, energy-efficient homes for Derby City Council.
At Mercer Building Solutions, we are committed to building not just houses, but sustainable communities. These new homes reflect our dedication to innovation, environmental responsibility, and meeting the real housing needs of local people.
It’s been a privilege to work on a project that will have such a positive and lasting impact.