THE redevelopment of Lower Pulrose is complete.
The milestone was marked as the Department of Social Care handed over 36 new public sector properties in Oak Avenue and Oak Close to Douglas Council.
This final phase comprises eight two-bedroom flats, and six two-bedroom, nine three-bedroom and three four-bedroom (including one adapted for disabled use) houses, together with 10 two-bedroom bungalows.
The £4.1m project has replaced 252 properties with 240 and has also seen the construction of 28 first-time buyer homes.
Meanwhile the £17.6m redevelopment of Upper Pulrose continues with the completion of phase eight, 44 properties in Heather Crescent, Heather Close and Hazel Close, at a cost of £6m.
In June this year 22 flats in Hazel Close were handed over to the council, which has now taken possession of the remaining units – six two-bedroom flats, three two-bedroom, 10 three-bedroom and three four-bedroom houses, including one adapted for disabled use.
Separately, work on 42 properties in the next phase has now begun which will be completed by the construction of 38 sheltered housing units, the total scheme providing an additional 124 homes by 2015.
Douglas Council’s housing and property advisory committee lead member Councillor Carol Malarkey said: ‘To see the redevelopment of Lower Pulrose draw to such a satisfactory conclusion on time and on budget is extremely satisfying for all parties involved. The project to provide quality affordable public sector housing is a demonstration of partnership working at its most effective.
‘On behalf of the council I extend my gratitude to the support of the Department of Social Care and the contractors, architects, design team and council officers, in particular those in the housing section, whose combined expertise and commitment to see this project through are to be commended.’
Department of Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw MHK said: ‘This project is the final phase of a major redevelopment scheme which has transformed Lower Pulrose. It is great to see how investment makes a real difference to the area. The properties are built to modern standards and are a credit to the design team and contractor involved.’