The High Lanes Estate in East Gateshead included 43 non-traditional ‘Airey houses’ built during the 1940s. The resulting homes were notoriously difficult to heat and in structural decay.
The contract to carry out the modernisation works to the ‘Airey Homes’ under the Decent Homes programme was awarded to Esh Property Services by The Gateshead Housing Company in 2008.
External works included the removal and replacement of ‘Airey’ concrete panelling. The houses received new kitchens, upgrade of heating with new windows and doors, new electric showers, bathroom upgrade, loft insulation and new roofs.
Over 315 tonnes of concrete panelling was removed and taken away to be crushed, then brought back to site to be reused as aggregate and hardcore – saving on landfill tax.
In addition to the cosmetic improvements to the properties there have been a number of improvements to the energy efficiency. There has been significant tenant feedback that the houses are now warmer and energy bills are lower.
A block of garages on the estate were heavily vandalised and in extreme disrepair, whilst the neighbouring houses had been raised to the ground in a fire over 5 years ago. This area was cleared to make way for the construction of 3 new build properties, as well as providing space for the development of a new community area.
The new build properties are the first new build council housing to be completed in Gateshead in 25 years.
The new homes were built to Sustainable Homes Code Level 4 – reduced energy by installation of photovoltaic cells on the roof, high-efficiency heating systems and a disabled shower room installed on the ground floor.
New ‘Social Space’ was created as the centre piece of the estate for all to use, located next to the shops and Aquila Community Centre. This includes giant chequers board, slalom posts, seating area for older residents, herb garden and landscaped gardens.
Results
GHC have experienced a stronger demand for homes, as evidenced by:
- Tenant Turnover – 9.03% down to 3.45%
- Average Void Turnaround on properties – 17 weeks down to 4 weeks
- Average Rent Arrears – 42% reduction
Anti-Social Behaviour
Anti-social behaviour on the estate has been massively reduced. The Gateshead Housing Company and Esh Property Services worked closely with the local community organisation, Aquila, to tackle this, amongst the many other issues experienced on the estate.
The Gateshead Housing Company have seen Anti-Social Behaviour per 100 tenants drop from 14.6 down to 1.4.
Numerous community clean ups were carried out on the estate, with one event instigated and led by children aged between 10 -16, who helped to litter pick rubbish around the estate. Residents were able to ‘spring clean’ their homes removing any clutter, as well as clearing fly-tipping areas.
High Lanes Estate is now tidy and it is evident that youths are more conscious. There is noticeably less graffiti around the estate, particularly no door numbers painted on the sides of houses.
