Social Housing Award

sponsored by CYNTRA
Awarded to the Social Housing project that has the potential to deliver a measurable change in both the standard of accommodation and the environmental performance of the buildings and associated land.

2010 Winner: Middlesbrough Council - Trinity Crescent, North Ormesby housing scheme

The regeneration of the Trinity Crescent area of North Ormesby has been a top priority for Middlesbrough Council for a number of years. The aim was not just to replace run-down housing but to create a sustainable community of mixed housing with first-class facilities.

Led by Middlesbrough Council and Tees Valley Housing, part of the Fabrick Group, the scheme transformed a run-down market square with 1960s maisonettes on one side and a tired looking shopping centre on the other into a cutting edge, attractive mixed-use scheme. As well as the provision of 110 houses for sale and 40 houses and bungalows for rent at affordable levels, the development includes a new medical village, community facility, childcare nursery and extra care housing.

The community was fully involved from the start, with residents, the Trinity Church, faith groups, local businesses, social services, the health care trust, the police and construction teams helping to deliver the scheme.

A council survey has shown that since the development, perceptions of the neighbourhood have improved and people feel safer, are less worried about house burglaries and are more satisfied with the area.

The development also had extra positive spin-off effects including projects to improve the lives of younger people in the area, which has led to the reduction of anti-social behaviour.  Initiatives were also formed to improve community cohesion between the people who live in North Ormesby and the wider community. A new allotment association was formed and other community projects to cut down on stray dogs, increase employment and improve community safety and crime detection were also successful.

The quality of the completed buildings has really boosted the image of the community, which will sustain interest and pride in the area in the longer term.

Commended projects:

Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council - West End, Ashton Under Lyne
Rutland County Council - Drift Close, Back Road, Barrowden
Northumberland County Council - St James's Church Hall, Alnwick