New Homes for Christmas

RESIDENTS have been given an early Christmas present after moving into their brand new homes in time for the festive period.

Erimus Housing has made the dreams of 15 people and their families come true by moving them into their contemporary new homes on Barholm Close in Netherfields.

The modern properties, all two and three bedroom houses for rent, have been built by Dunelm Property Services in a £2m scheme funded by the Homes and Communities Agency.

The new residents are already benefiting from their new homes as they prepare for Christmas.

Laura Fallow, 22, moved into one of the properties a week ago from her previous home in Brambles Farm.

“It is much bigger than where I was before and it is very modern and up-to-date. I think it is great, I settled in straight away. It is the best Christmas present.”

The properties are just part of the new build scheme. Early in 2010, the final five homes built as part of the development, this time around the corner on Burwell Road, are due to be ready for rent.

The properties, which started to be built in April 2009, have been developed on the site of two 1960s two storey blocks made up of maisonettes and bedsits that were demolished in 2007.

The new homes, designed by HMH Architects, host contemporary features such as ensuite bathrooms, as well as eco-friendly qualities such as solar roof panels and outside water butts to collect rain water.

Mike Carr, Chair of the Erimus Board, said: “We are pleased to be able to welcome the first residents to this great new development in a well-established neighbourhood, especially as it will give them a new home in time for Christmas.

“This scheme has provided much-needed family homes for affordable rent and extends our new housing stock, providing opportunities for people and places to thrive.”