Archived press release

Date Published: 10/11/06

The first practical steps towards the £10 million redevelopment of Aylesbury New Lodge are now evident for all in Aylesbury to see. The first of the original buildings has been demolished to make way for phase one of the building programme p...

The first practical steps towards the £10 million redevelopment of Aylesbury New Lodge are now evident for all in Aylesbury to see. The first of the original buildings has been demolished to make way for phase one of the building programme providing 84 homes due for completion in August 2007.

Overall the redevelopment, to be named Griffin Place, will provide 105 purpose built rooms and flats including three ‘family crash pads’ (a double bedroom, two single beds and a kitchen and a shower) available for families requiring immediate housing. 

Spearheaded by Bromford Housing Group and Aylesbury Vale District Council, the striking new-look development will completely transform the existing facilities for individuals, homeless families and residents who have made the Lodge their home for several years. The concept, designed by architects Baily Garner and built by developers John Laing Partnership, offers distinct buildings with separate secure entrances and beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and the capacity to house 274 local people. Alongside the bricks and mortar of the homes, all residents will receive a high level of support from a central reception area, on-site management team and facilities for training and for family support. The phased construction approach has enabled long-term residents to transfer across to their new homes without leaving Griffin Place. 

24 of the original residents returning to live in the new homes have been invited to discuss and help select the paint colours and kitchen unit options from samples for their homes and communal areas on Tuesday 14 November at 10.30am. 

Chris Holland, Regional Head of Development for Bromford, said: “It’s very satisfying to see the redevelopment moving forward.  The success of this type of specialised development is the direct result of strong partnership working and ongoing consultation with residents.”

Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of Aylesbury Vale District Council, said: “We are very pleased to see work starting on the first phase of development. There will be major improvements for those currently living at The Lodge and future residents and their families. Residents will no longer have to share facilities like they have to now and will have far more privacy than is currently available. The design of the building shows that we’ve listened to residents, who told us that they wanted more privacy and better security. The new accommodation will make a real improvement to their quality of life.”

Housing Corporation Director for the South East, Fiona Cruickshank, said: "I am pleased that this significant redevelopment in Aylesbury is beginning to turn in to reality. This is one of the largest amounts of funding that we allocated and look forward to the completion of these much needed homes for local people and families that will provide a secure home and greater independence."

Phase two will consist of a further 21 homes due for completion in June 2008.   A series of consultation meetings have kept residents informed throughout the planning process.