A SOCIAL housing provider has joined forces with a top building contractor to launch a green credential-boasting development.
ACIS Group has appointed Derby-based Hodgkinson Builders to construct a 47-home development in Birch Road, in Louth, Lincolnshire.
Work on the site, which comprises 30 affordable rented and 17 shared ownership properties, has just begun.
The homes will consist of one, two and three-bed properties, which includes bungalows, self-contained flats and houses. The development will be a flagship scheme that leads the way in being eco-friendly.
Its green features include air source heat pumps, rather than gas central heating, which transfers heat from the outside air to water, and in turn heats rooms.
Other sustainable aspects of the properties may include PV solar panels and pre-installed car charging points.
Ben Radley, ACIS development project manager, said: “We are trying to future-proof these properties as far as we can.
“Also as part of working towards an economical-build, these homes will be timber-framed with alternative modern heating systems.”
Work to have the site - which stood disused for over a decade following the demolition of the former Wallis House factory - redeveloped took some time.
But following discussions with East Lindsey District Council, which contributed additional funding towards the affordable housing element, an agreement was reached.
“There appears to be quite a sizable need in the area for smaller homes - one-beds in particular,” said Ben.
“As a housing organisation, we are trying to look at local housing need and we need to work with local residents to make sure we are meeting their needs, while doing what’s right for the area.”
In addition to funding from the local authority, ACIS obtained funds from Homes England for the development.
Hodgkinson Builders bought the land around three years ago and approached ACIS with a view to developing it for residential use.
Ben added: “Hodgkinson approached us with their proposal. It is in a key area for ACIS, and it came at the right time.
“Our review of Hodgkinson was that they produce good schemes and it was important to see the variety of works they undertake.
“They don’t shy away from a bit of a challenge and looking at the schemes Hodgkinson has done, there’s variety and there’s consideration. They seem to have a sympathetic eye when it comes to design and build.”
Hodgkinson has worked with other housing associations, including Futures Housing Group and, in 2021, the firm produced an Annual Social Housing Report, which called for the removal of the stigma of social housing.
Robert Hodgkinson, director at Hodgkinson Builders, said: “ACIS is a new client to us and things have started very well.
“The relationship is strong and we are looking at delivering a successful project, and hopefully the start of many.”
He added: “We are keen to make a positive and social change, and are delighted to be able to provide much-needed housing.”
The homes are due for completion in Spring 2025 and the rental homes will be released through Homechoice Lincs.