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Berwick Borough Housing recently completed improvements on its 1,000th home as part of its aim that all homes meet the Decent Homes Standard.
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| Tuesday 26th July 2011 |
The Decent Homes Standard was set by government to make sure all social housing meets a set level in terms of facilities, state of repair and heating. Berwick Borough Housing has been undertaking this work since housing was transferred from the council to the organisation in 2008. The housing association says that the standard of work that its completing exceeds the minimum requirement set bygovernment.
Mr and Mrs Tindle, from Scremeston, are in their 60s and have lived in the Berwick borough for all of their lives. They live in the 1,000th home to have the improvements and received a new kitchen, bathroom, fire and surround, central heating system and new wiring.
The work, which has been carried out by contractor Gentoo Construction, took just over three weeks to complete. It marks just over the half-way point in making sure all of Berwick Borough Housing's homes meet - and exceed - the standard.
Mrs Tindle said, "We've lived here for just over two years and having these improvements made to our home has been a real bonus. There was quite a lot of disruptionwhen the workmen were here, but we were never left without the essentials and in the end it's been well worth it.
"I think the biggest difference will be having the new heating, because the coal fire we had before meant it could get really chilly. I'm looking forward to the winter now I know we'll be nice and warm!"
Residents are invited to a consultation event prior to any work taking place, where Gentoo staff are on-hand to answer any questions about the different options available.
David Brown, Head of Asset Management for Berwick Borough Housing, commented, "Reaching our 1,000th home is a big milestone for the Decent Homes programme."
"Despite the inevitable disruptions for residents the feedback we've had has been very positive, and I'd like to thank everyone for their patience."
Allan Thompson, Managing Director of Gentoo Construction said: "The modernisation programme so far has been a great success and we will continue to work in partnership with Berwick Borough Housing toimprove customers' homes with as little disruption as possible."
The Decent Homes programme will see a total of over 1,800 homes across the borough, including Berwick, Wooler, Belford and Seahouses, brought up to Decent Homes Standard as part of a £27million investment.
Decent Homes work is currently ongoing in properties in East Ord and Norham with work expected to begin in properties in Prior Park, Horncliffe, Bowsden, Lowick and Velvet Hall.
Picture caption: Berwick Borough Housing chairman Brian Spears and Four Housing Group chairman Peter Gavin present Mr and Mrs Tindle with flowers to celebrate the 1,000th home completed. |
| Posted by 0 for Berwick Borough Housing |
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