Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Lead for Development and Regeneration was joined by Cabinet colleagues to mark a significant milestone on 12 January 2024 with a special visit to Park Rise.
Councillor Williamson was joined at the Hornchurch development - the second phase of the Havering '12 Estates' regeneration initiative in collaboration with Wates - by Cabinet colleagues Cllr Oscar Ford, Cllr Barry Mugglestone and Cllr Keith Darvill.
Accompanied by Baerbel Schuett, Development Director for Wates, and Hugh Jeffery, Regional Development Director, the visit spotlighted the development's commitment to creating a vibrant community, ahead of residents moving in later this month/early February.
The Park Rise development, located on the former Solar, Serena and Sunrise Courts estate, is the second to be completed as part of Havering Council and Wates’ joint venture partnership to regenerate 12 council estates across the borough.
The 175 high-quality homes in a retirement community village exclusively for the over 55s, include shared indoor and outdoor spaces designed to help people live independent lives whilst being part of a wider community.
All residents that were moved off the site to allow for the regeneration to proceed are guaranteed the right to return to the brand new, low-maintenance homes.
The 175 homes are a mixture of new council rented homes, shared ownership homes and properties for sale.
Councillor Williamson said:
“It is great to be here today to see the site taking shape. I am extremely impressed by the quality of these new homes – the interiors as well as the grounds and gardens.
“It’s exciting to be so close to welcoming former Solar, Serena and Sunrise Court residents back, as well as their new neighbours, to these high-quality homes specifically for our older residents to live healthy and independent lives.”
Hugh Jeffery, Regional Development Director for Wates Residential, said:
“Working in partnership with Havering to reach this milestone at Park Rise is a real highlight.
"These new homes have been designed to ensure residents can age comfortably in their new homes as they are able to be adapted to ensure they are fit for the future.
"It is excellent to soon be welcoming previous and new neighbours back with welcome arms.”
Read more information on the new homes
Read more information about the scheme