Project, which was hampered by the collapse of two building contractors, offers 76 one and two-bedroomed homes in Liverpool. Tony McDonough reports
Housing group Torus has taken delivery of its first affordable housing scheme in Liverpool since the coronavirus lockdown.
Located on the site of the former Notre Dame Catholic College, in Everton, the £9.5m development will offer 76 one and two-bedroomed homes available for affordable rent and shared ownership.
Torus says it has seen a growing demand for shared ownership (part buy, part rent) properties which help people get onto the ladder without overstretching themselves financially.
The redevelopment of the former college site was not without its challenges for Torus with two building contractors going into administration during the course of the build. However, the appointment of local construction company, HMS, saw the scheme successfully completed and hand over in the last few days.
Chris Bowen, managing director of Torus Developments, said: “This is a landmark moment for Torus. The onset of COVID-19 had a massive and immediate impact on our development programme, halting progress on more than 30 sites across the North West.
“Now, it is wonderful to see Notre Dame completed so soon after restrictions have eased. Gradually, our development programme has returned to activity on 95% of our sites and the pace at which Notre Dame has completed is a benchmark for us.
“Our investment in new housing can be a major part of post-COVID-19 economic recovery in the Liverpool city region.Notre Dame is testament to the commitment of our team and partners who have worked tirelessly to complete the development and increase access to safe, high quality, affordable homes.
“Currently, feeling secure and settled has never been more pertinent and as we all adjust to the ‘new normal’, it’s fantastic to see people have access to more flexible options for secure renting and low cost home ownership at a time when economic conditions are difficult for many.”
The Notre Dame development is part of a wider development programme from Torus Developments, which is delivering 1,200 new homes across the Liverpool city region. The group is committed to working with local supply chains and contractors on the projects.