RECENTLY, Cllr Rob Gledhill, Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Housing was proud to hand the keys over to single mum Hollie Haney and daughter Beau after waiting “months and months”.
12 new homes in Bracelett Close in Corringham have been built as affordable homes. Affordable homes are properties where rents are charged at least 70 per cent of the local market rent but are available for those currently on the council’s waiting or transfer waiting list.
Cllr Gledhill said: “A good marker of whether we’re building decent homes should be if I would be comfortable living there with my family and I can safely say I would be.
“They are modern, with lots of light and a clever design throughout. Equipped with solar panels, bike racks in the hallway and integrated recycling solutions, we’re enabling residents to live in an environmentally friendly way rather than in cramped boxes which has been the case before.
“The fact we’re renting these homes at 70 per cent market value means we’re not only supporting those residents who need a hand, but also ensuring a fair return for the tax payer.
“These homes have set the bar on council homes going forward.”
“I’m looking forward to coming back to see how and Beau in 6 months as part of my housing review.”
Hollie and Beau were excited to be moving in following months of separation. Hollie said: “I used to have a lovely home in Aveley, one thing lead to another and I couldn’t afford it and I found myself sofa surfing at friends and Beau staying at nanny’s.
“There is still some work to do, we need to get some appliances and furniture, like a bed and carpet – but this is our home.”
