Merton (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Merton Council breaks ground on borough’s first new council homes in a generation, kickstarting plan to deliver 400 affordable properties by 2027.
Although the action is viewed as a step in the right direction to address the housing issue, some contend it is too costly and time-consuming.
As demand for housing continues to climb, Merton, like many other councils in the UK, is experiencing a shortfall, especially for temporary housing.
In order to help address this demand, Merton Council has committed to constructing 400 additional affordable homes throughout the borough.
When the 93 homes are finished, they will be the first new council homes in 40 years. The first phase of building will be conducted at four locations throughout the borough.
At Morden’s Farm Road Church, work will begin.
Along with the Morden location, council homes will also be constructed at Raleigh Gardens Car Park, Elm Nursery Car Park, and Canons, Madeira Road in Mitcham.
In order to lower renters’ living expenses, the houses will be built in accordance with PassivHaus principles, emphasizing energy efficiency and green design.
At Farm Road Church, demolition is already underway, preparing the site for construction later this year.
According to the council, contractor DDS Demolition has pledged to make sure the work is done safely, putting precautions in place to lessen dust, prevent traffic jams, and save the environment.
Following the project tender announcement last October, Councillor Andrew Judge, Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development, said: “With over 10,500 people on the waiting list in Merton alone, it’s crucial we build more council homes.”
He praised the government’s ‘ambitious’ target of 1.5 million new homes, many of which are social housing.
He continued: “Historically, we’ve only met housing targets when councils lead the way. We’re taking that lead now, and by the time these homes are completed, we’ll have built up valuable experience. We should be building better homes than the private sector.”
The council’s delays and “overspending” on the housing project were criticized by Merton’s Lib Dem opposition despite this progress, pointing out that after two years, not a single home had been delivered.
Less than 25% of the initial goal is anticipated this year, indicating that there is no clear strategy for the remaining 307 dwellings, they pointed out at last Wednesday’s budget meeting (February 26).
The new homes’ affordability was also questioned. The current cost of each home is £611,505, which is almost twice the initial £57 million budget.
Additionally, they pointed out that the existing displacement situation will remain unaddressed because these homes will not be used as temporary housing.
In order to lower the “soaring” prices of temporary accommodation, the opposition also suggested constructing 100 modular homes at a cost of £27,000 apiece.
Councillor Anthony Fairclough, Leader of the Merton Lib Dems, said: “Merton Council has repeatedly over-promised and under-delivered. We need housing solutions now, not broken promises. Modular homes are cheaper, quicker to build, and offer a real solution.”
Councillor Anthony Fairclough, Leader of the Merton Lib Dems, said:
“Merton Council has repeatedly over-promised and under-delivered. We need housing solutions now, not broken promises. Modular homes are cheaper, quicker to build, and offer a real solution.”
This idea was rejected by the council, which is run by Labour. According to Council Leader Ross Garrod, the borough’s housing ambitions reached a significant turning point with the demolition of Farm Road Church.
He said:
“We’re committed to ensuring these new homes provide a good and decent quality of life for all new residents.”
Councillor Judge added:
“We’re very proud to see the work get under way in building our first new council homes. Merton’s new council homes will help relieve some of the pressure on our local housing crisis, transforming the lives of individuals and families in the borough by supplying quality, affordable housing that people are proud to call home.
We’re focused on making the new developments as energy-efficient as possible so residents will benefit from warmer homes and lower energy costs.”
DDS Demolition’s Contracts Manager, Dylan Lovelock, emphasised the project’s significance. He said: “This milestone represents a real commitment to the community and dedication to providing much-needed homes for families and future generations.”
How will the Merton’s new council homes impact the local community?
The construction of 400 new council homes by 2027 will bring much-needed affordable housing for families and individuals currently residing in temporary or inappropriate housing, since there are currently over 10,500 persons on Merton’s housing waiting list.
PassivHaus criteria will be followed in the construction of the dwellings, guaranteeing energy efficiency and lowering occupants’ utility bills. Tenant financial strain is lessened and sustainability objectives are met.
Providing families with stable, long-term, high-quality housing can help them become more socially connected and more involved in the community.
The building phase will boost the local economy and generate jobs. Affordable housing can also lessen the need for pricey private rents, freeing up funds for other purposes.
In order to address social injustices and foster diversity, these homes will serve a range of needs, including those of families, senior citizens, and those with particular needs.