MP for Loughborough, Nicky Morgan has been given a private tour of Thomas Cook Place, the town’s brand new housing scheme from contractor and developer, William Davis Ltd and affordable housing provider, Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA).
Thomas Cook Place was officially opened in May 2012 and has transformed the previously derelict area around Loughborough train station through the provision of 91 new houses and apartments. Representatives from NCHA and William Davis took Mrs Morgan on a guided tour around the development, showcasing the public artwork on display at the entrance to Sidings Walk as well as providing the opportunity to view two of the energy efficient properties.
“This type of scheme is so important for Loughborough – not only does it provide essential housing, it brings much needed regeneration and incentivises both the public and private sector to look at Loughborough as a positive growth area worth investing in, which is great for our future,” Mrs Morgan said.
“This particular development is helping to quench a strong appetite of local people through its diverse range of property sizes, which is unusual for affordable housing,” she said.
Guy Higgins, managing director, William Davis added: “Thomas Cook Place marks a milestone in the wider regeneration of Eastern Gateway and we are extremely proud of our involvement here. During the tour it was pleasing to see how quickly a thriving community has been established, with many families now moved in. Nicky demonstrated an acute awareness of the demand for this type of housing and we welcomed the opportunity to highlight a scheme that goes some way towards alleviating the shortfall.”
Concluding the tour Mrs Morgan chatted with project partners over a mug of builder’s tea in the kitchen of a two bedroom property still available.
Mike Andrews, chief executive, NCHA added: “Working in close cooperation with other agencies has enabled us to build a development that brings benefits not just for the site’s new residents, but for the wider community. Additionally, the mix of tenure and property types helps to allow local people to be able to remain in their home town, which is an important factor for us.”
William Davis and NCHA’s next partnership project is a select development of properties on the former Rosebery School site in Loughborough. These are due to be handed over in September 2012.
