Leeds City Council is clearing these outdated blocks to make the site available for a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) housing project due to start next year.
The project includes the building of new council homes, refurbishment of existing council homes and environmental improvements. The redevelopment of 275 new homes across a number of sites in Beeston Hill & Holbeck will help bring a new lease of life to the area.
**************** MEDIA OPPORTUNITY ****************
WHAT: Press are invited to a unique photo opportunity from the roof of a neighbouring tower block to record the demolition of the first of the five towers, by a giant ‘nibbler’ machine
WHERE: Meynell Heights, Holbeck, Leeds
WHEN: 10am, Friday 12th March
The design of the new homes will comply with high standards of energy efficiency, safety and security and the living spaces will be adaptable in order to meet the different needs of individuals or families over a lifetime. The proposals are for a mix of flats and family housing enabling people with growing families to stay in the area and remain part of the community.
All former residents have been successfully re-housed by Aire Valley Homes Leeds with all those wishing to stay in the area being able to do so.
Councillor Les Carter, Leeds City Council’s executive board member for neighbourhoods and housing said:
“The demolition signifies the end of an era but also progress in addressing housing needs for how we live today and for future generations.
“Holbeck Towers have had their day and decline, for many reasons over the years, has been apparent.
“It is no longer cost effective to refurbish these blocks due to the way they were built so it is a great opportunity to build brand new council housing.
“Holbeck Towers are a prominent landmark in the city and visible on the approach to Leeds. At this gateway site we want to build quality housing that gives a positive impression of the city.”
Edith Craighead, who moved into Holbeck Towers in 1960 and lived there for 48 years, said:
“When I first moved in I felt I was living up in the air – nearly to heaven. There were nice neighbours and people seemed to stay but in later years it wasn’t the same.
“I am pleased that houses are going to be built on this site; with streets people helped each other more.”
Notes to Editors
The Regeneration of Little London and Beeston Hill & Holbeck
Leeds City Council is making a major contribution to the regeneration of Little London and Beeston Hill & Holbeck through a Private Finance Initiative (PFI). The council has been awarded PFI credits by the government and is now undertaking the procurement of a contractor for the works.
The PFI contract with the private sector will be for the construction of new council homes, refurbishment of council properties, some environmental improvements and maintenance of all elements over a 20 year period. The PFI regeneration project contributes to the wider regeneration plans for Little London and Beeston Hill & Holbeck.
The partnership arrangement
The regeneration of Little London and Beeston Hill & Holbeck is being led by Leeds City Council in partnership with the Arms Length Management Organisations (ALMOs) which are not-for-profit companies set up by the council to manage and improve council housing stock.
ENDS
For media enquiries please contact:
Michael Molcher, Leeds City Council (0113) 224 3937
e-mail: michael.molcher@leeds.gov.uk
