Work Continues on Council House Development

A drive to build more council homes in South Tyneside continues as the construction of ten new properties progresses at pace.

The development, at Hindmarch Drive, Boldon, will provide a mix of two-bedroomed houses, apartments and bungalows.

Much of the exterior build is complete, with the roofs on the bungalows being tiled and solar panels about to be installed. The exterior walls on the apartments and houses are built up to roof height, with floor joists and roofing works due to start. Internet installation has also begun at the site.

All the homes will be A rated for energy consumption and will use energy efficiency measures including air source heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage. They will all have electric vehicle charging points.

Cllr Jim Foreman, Lead Member for Housing and Community Safety, said: "It's great seeing this development gradually taking shape.

"The build is progressing well and local people have told us they've experienced minimal noise and disruption.

"A lot of the external work is done and then the internal fitout will begin. I'm looking forward to seeing the completed properties, which are going to provide much-needed affordable accommodation to meet local housing need.

"We're proactive about delivering good quality modern homes, in line with our ambition of creating strong communities where people live in safe, sustainable neighbourhoods.

All of the properties will have parking facilities, and nine will have a private garden.

The homes are being built through the Housing Revenue Account, following changes to the cap on borrowing limits and grant funding provided by Homes England, and as part of the council's five-year housing strategy.

South Tyneside Homes is carrying out the construction works, which are expected to be complete early next year, and managing the development on behalf of the council.