A two year programme, designed to convert council flats into family homes across Blackpool, has been completed.
The final phase of the works saw 66 flats converted into 33 homes at Horsebridge Road, Grange Park, and was wrapped up last week.
It brought to an end a programme of conversions which saw a total of 172 flats turned into 86 family homes giving the properties a new lease of life and, it is expected, extending their useful life for decades.
It is hoped the programme will help to establish an improved family and community atmosphere within the areas involved and better fit demand.
Cllr Gillian Campbell, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for housing, visited the Horsebridge Road conversions and said she was delighted with the outcome.
“This will make a real difference to Grange Park," she said. "We’re striving to create more family housing throughout Blackpool to cater more effectively for the needs of local residents and this is a prime example. The conversion programme has been a big success and I hope the families living there will enjoy many happy years in their new homes.”
Part of the costs of the programme of refurbishment and conversion were met by investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), with the rest coming from the on-going programme of investment in Council housing.
Deborah McLaughlin, Executive Director for the North West at the HCA, said: “There is a real demand for family houses in Blackpool, so I’m pleased that we have been able to work closely with Blackpool Council to rejuvenate these homes. I’m sure they will prove really popular with local residents.”
Blackpool Coastal Housing managed the work and Forrest were the main contractor for most of the programme.
They employed local trainees from Blackpool Build Up as part of a commitment to provide opportunities for Blackpool residents.