From grass verge to a room with a view at Poole’s latest housing development
Yesterday (2 October) marked the opening of Nile Court, Sovereign’s new housing development at Holes Bay Road in Poole, which will provide 46 much-needed affordable homes in the centre of Poole.
Sovereign Housing Association met with Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole councillors, developers Drew Smith and Boyle and Summers Architects to celebrate their partnership working and the grand opening of Nile Court, where residents have already starting moving in.
The success of this development was made possible through a collaborative partnership with the Local Authority who provided the land, Homes England who invested grant funding, and local contractor Drew Smith Limited, who helped deliver the scheme through many complex challenges.
Working on a small pocket of land between the bay and the railway, the nine storey building boasts sea views from every home and provides quality affordable homes within walking distance of the railway station, Poole’s main shopping centre and restaurants and bars. Nile Court has 20 two-bed homes and 10 one-bed homes for affordable rent, and there are 15 two-bed homes and one one-bed home for shared ownership.
Helen Hann, Sovereign, Divisional Director (South) said: ‘We’re proud to officially open Nile Court. This development is an excellent example of partnership working with BCP Council, Drew Smith Limited and Homes England. In an area of high housing need, it’s great to see people moving into, and enjoying, their new homes.’
Councillor Kieron Wilson, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “I’m delighted to see the completion of this new housing scheme in Poole. We are committed to delivering more good quality affordable housing for local people across the BCP Council area and Nile Court will now be home to local residents who are either renting or have been helped on to the property ladder through shared ownership. All of whom will have spectacular views over the bay.’
Leanne Smith, New Business Director, Drew Smith Limited said: “Drew Smith are incredibly proud to have worked with Sovereign, BCP and Homes England to deliver these high quality affordable homes for the Community of Poole. This development is testament to what can be achieved when key organisations work collaboratively towards a common goal”.
Richard Summers of Boyle and Summers Architects said: ‘When we first identified this site in 2012 no-one could quite see the potential as we did. The Boyle and Summers team have shown great skill and determination to help deliver such high quality affordable new homes for local people’.