Bradford housing group partners with Netherlands construction specialists to launch pilot scheme

Bradford’s largest social housing group Incommunities has finalised plans to build six state-of-the-art pre-assembled homes in Manningham - a scheme which could help tackle the UK’s housing crisis.

In partnership with construction specialists from the Netherlands, Incommunities will build the modular designed homes in sections in factory conditions and include plumbing, wiring and fitting out, before being shipped and built on part of the group’s’ Green Lane development site.

The new scheme with iQwoning, is thought to be the first of its kind involving a UK housing association.

Six factory finished modules plus roofing will make up one spacious four bedroom home.

Funding support for the new homes is coming from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Earlier this week, Incommunities’ group chief executive, Geraldine Howley and Jez Lester, assistant chief executive joined Johan Postma and Koos Pijnenburg from iQwoning to sign the contract for the six new homes.

Mr Howley said: “We are really excited by the prospect of bringing this modern form of house construction to Bradford which offers shorter build times and efficiencies as well as cost savings.

“We are looking forward to working with iQwoning and Bradford Council to deliver this ground breaking project as part of our Affordable Homes Programme with the HCA.”

Mr Lester added: “This sustainable housing model represents a real first for Incommunities and the city, with the majority of the build carried out off site. The only work on site involves groundworks and foundation work, constructing the exterior stonework, fitting a roof cover and service connections.

“We will be looking closely at the delivery of the model and the feedback of customers as we assess the opportunities going forward.”

The concrete sections of the pre-assembled homes are due to be delivered to the site at the start of 2016 ready for Incommunities to release for rent by March 2016.

iQwoning is part of the Dutch-based construction and engineering company Ballast Nedam.