Derelict Wickes site now a vibrant community with Radian’s name on it

Radian has overcome the challenges posed by the recession to deliver enhanced levels of affordable and high quality sustainable homes in the heart of a well established community. In partnership with the Homes and Communities Agency and Southampton City Council, Radian has regenerated the formerly derelict DIY depot into modern, stylish, sustainable, affordable homes. The new homes in Fullerton Place, Portswood Road, Southampton were formally opened on Friday 24^th June, with a garden party, to which all the residents were invited, together with local dignitaries, VIPs and local businesses who have helped the new development. Kevin Bourner, the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA’s) Head of Area unveiled an engraved stone be laid into the paving at the entrance to the site.

 The project has become synonymous with successful delivery of a complicated development in unprecedented economic conditions with a very tight timescale.  Radian worked closely in partnership with Southampton City Council, the HCA and the developer Orchard Homes to provide a mix of tenures and units that meet local needs both now and into the future.

The development has provided 82 affordable homes for rent and shared ownership, with another 19 units delivered for private market rent. Many of the apartments have a private balcony; all are offered with fitted kitchens complete with oven, hob and extractor, washer/dryer, fridge/freezer and a modern bathroom suite. The apartments also boast gas central heating with mechanical heat recovery unit, a secure video door entry system, and a 12 year National House-Building Council warranty.

In July 2009, the HCA announced that the scheme had secured an investment of £5,567,000 of grant through its Kickstart Housing Delivery Programme, which was set up to unlock stalled developments across England. The development started on site in November 2009 and was completed in March 2011, with a waiting list for those who wished to live there. Southampton City Council provided £300,000 to make sure the scheme could get going. The scheme, built by Orchard Homes, was one of the first Kickstart projects to start in the country.

Andrea Smith, Radian’s Director of Development and New Business said, “We're delighted to be providing these much-needed homes in Southampton which reflect high quality design and construction. This scheme has lifted this part of the city and provides attractive, affordable homes and has been made possible thanks to the support of the Homes and Communities Agency and Southampton City Council, our partnership with Orchard Homes, and the hard work of our consultant teams.”

The HCA’s Kevin Bourner added: “Fullerton Place was delivered in the face of tough economic conditions, to a very tight timescale, so it’s great to be able to attend its launch and help welcome residents into their new homes.

“Delivering housing in cities like Southampton, in areas where they are most needed, is a priority for us. But it’s a testament to the hard work of the partners, including Radian and the council, that these new homes have been delivered. I am sure tenants and residents will be very happy living in this high quality new neighbourhood.”

Councillor Peter Baillie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Local Services, said: “Fullerton Place is an outstanding example of a sustainable large development that provides a mix of tenures and units reflecting the local need now and in the future.

“Most importantly the scheme provides attractive affordable homes for those who might not otherwise be able to own a home of their own, and the shared ownership units have been very popular and sold quickly despite the challenges of the housing market.

“This has been an excellent partnership with Radian working closely with the council, the Homes and Communities Agency - who provided a generous grant, and the developer, Orchard Homes.

“Radian has also worked hard to ensure that all the new resident - regardless of whether they are shared owners renting but planning to buy in the near future or renting longer term feel part of this community.”

Members of Radian’s project team were on site for the duration of the moving in period to provide as much support as possible and welcome packs were arranged by the Community Initiatives Officer in conjunction with local businesses. The packs included a welcome hamper from the local Waitrose and the offer of a free pizza from the local Pizza Hut. Local businesses have been further involved with residents able to take up a £450 contribution towards sustainable transport in shape of a bicycle or bus pass. Radian is also working with the children who have moved in to promote an ‘edible balcony project’, which encourages residents to grow their own fresh produce.