Blyth home improvement scheme gets a warm reception
18 Nov 2024 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
Work to make scores of homes in Blyth warmer and more energy efficient is now underway.
The scheme to retrofit new energy efficiency measures and improve the appearance of the 72 homes in Bowes Court and Bowes Street will see the application of new external wall insulation and render, roof systems and solar energy amongst other improvements.
The works will contribute to warmer, dryer and more attractive properties for Blyth residents, as well as a reduction in maintenance costs and a smaller CO2 footprint.
The project forms part of the Energising Blyth £95m regeneration programme to renew, grow and connect the town. It is being delivered by Northumberland County Council, funded by the UK Government, Northumberland County Council and North of Tyne Combined Authority, with support from other partners.
To mark the start of work, residents were invited to attend a drop-in event organised by the County Council and supported by a mix of around 30 other council, public and voluntary services.
Attendees were able to meet with the construction company and raise any queries or concerns about what the forthcoming works might mean for them.
While the event was happening, staff took to the doors of Bowes Court and Bowes Street to carry out further conversations with residents.
Locals were also able to access assessments, information, advice and guidance on health, personal support needs, fire safety, money matters, community issues, employment, and volunteering.
Councillor Colin Horncastle, Cabinet Member responsible for Housing, said: “By bringing an upgrade to the external appearance of the homes, the community will see a big improvement in the look and feel of the Bowes Court and Bowes Street end of the town.
The works aim to be completed by late spring/ early summer 2025 with as little disruption to the residents as possible.
“One of the great things about this scheme is that as the project is being funded by the Council and the Government we can offer the works to all homes within Bowes Court and Bowes Street at no cost and regardless of ownership or tenure.
“This is the first of a number of new projects as part of Energising Blyth that will focus on improving and supporting communities in the town - with more on the way in the coming months.”
Croft Ward County Councillor Kath Nisbet said: "I am delighted to see the start of the Bowes Court and Bowes Street housing improvements. We are hopeful that this will have such a positive impact on the residents and the appearance of the town.
“Opportunities like these, to meet the contractors, staff and other support organisations in person, are extremely valuable.”
“The staff and contractors will continue to welcome any further queries that residents may have, going forward.”