Redeveloped Athol House welcomes residents

A regenerated housing scheme in Northumberland has welcomed its first tenants following a multi-year redevelopment to modernise and expand affordable provision.

Athol House on Callerton Lane in Ponteland has been transformed from 16 bedsit-style flats into 34 energy-efficient apartments for affordable rent. 

Delivered by Newcastle-headquartered Karbon Homes and part funded by Homes England, the scheme is aimed at meeting growing demand for housing for over-55s in the area.

Built by Equans and designed by JDDK Architects, the development places community at its heart, with apartments arranged around shared internal and external spaces to encourage social interaction.

The exterior has been designed to complement the surrounding village, sitting just outside the Ponteland conservation area and enhancing the street scene.

Zoey Hawthorne, group director of development at Karbon Homes, said: “This redevelopment of Athol House has seen us regenerate an outdated sheltered scheme that didn’t meet the wants and needs of today’s residents, into a modern, high quality and aspirational scheme.  

“It’s fantastic to see residents settling into what we believe is a real asset to Ponteland, helping meet the ever-growing demand for affordable housing options for over 55s.” 

The new building also features a communal green heating system powered by commercial air source heat pumps, providing underfloor heating and hot water while helping to reduce both carbon emissions and residents’ energy costs.

Jean Scott was a resident in the former Athol House for 15 years and has returned to one of the two-bed apartments in the scheme. 

She added: “Schemes like this are reassuring when you’re on your own. 

“There’s always someone around if there’s an emergency so you’re covered, you’re safe. 

“That feels comforting for me and without it, I worry my independence would start to slip. 

“I was really pleased when they reassured us that we’d get priority if we wanted to move back when the redevelopment was complete. 

“I’d fallen in love with Ponteland and didn’t want to leave. 

“It’s completely transformed the area and the building looks gorgeous. 

“I’ve got a lovely corner plot on the ground floor with a lovely balcony, and I can look out the window at the beautiful landscaping and watch the world go by. 

“I love it and I’m so glad to be back home.” 

Zoey added: “We’re particularly excited about the inclusion of a low carbon heating system in the scheme. 

“This is the first time we’ve incorporated a heating system of this kind, and demonstrates our commitment to delivering not only affordable, but greener, more sustainable and efficient housing.”  

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