£1.6m affordable housing project launched in North Yorkshire

North Star Housing Group has opened its first new build scheme of affordable houses in Richmondshire, and 12 families have already settled into their new homes.

Developed on behalf of Endeavour Housing Association, part of North Star Housing Group, The Steadings in Scotton was officially opened by Lord Lieutenant Barry Dodd CBE, the Queen’s personal representative in Yorkshire.

Located two miles from the army barracks at Catterick Garrison, the £1.6m project features 12 brand new homes that were developed by Esh Property Services for Endeavour Housing Association, with a grant of £573k awarded by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

The high quality homes have been built with environmentally friendly materials and incorporate design features including mobility standard access to front and rear doors, rainwater harvesting systems to reduce water use, and ideal parking and garden space.

The properties also meet the Secured by Design standard, a flagship UK police initiative launched to improve the security of new-build homes and reduce associated crime.

Next to the homes, Endeavour has collaborated with Playdale to build a brand new playground, which was designed with toddlers in mind and specialist play equipment chosen just for younger users.

This project was able to be completed in such efficient time due to the Rural Housing Enabler – an organisation set up to support the delivery of new high quality housing schemes that meet the needs of local communities and the local environment.

Mr Dodd, who unveiled a plaque to mark the grand opening of the Steadings scheme, said: “Having run successful businesses in Yorkshire I know how important it is to support schemes that will create wealth for the area and improve the lives of local people.

“The Steadings will certainly achieve that and full credit must go to North Star and all of the other partners who worked so hard to make this development a reality.”

Angela Lockwood, chief executive of North Star Housing Group, added: “We are delighted to welcome all of our new tenants to their homes in Scotton. Having worked in partnership with Scotton and Tunstall Parish Councils, Esh Group and the Homes and Communities Agency on this exciting new scheme, we are proud to be playing a major role in the development of the area.

“The Steadings helps to address the need for high quality, environmentally friendly rural homes in Richmondshire. We’re also pleased to see that our development activities are bringing added value to the community, with the inclusion of a play park for the enjoyment of local families.”

Graham Morgan, divisional director of Esh Property Services, alos commented: “These lovely new homes have been built to the Code 3 modern construction standard which means they are really energy efficient and low heating costs can be achieved. The Steadings is a great example of partnerships working to build affordable homes for local communities and we are delighted for the families who have moved in and wish them very many happy times in their new homes.”