Wandsworth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Wandsworth’s housing initiative sees local residents move into newly-built council homes as the Homes for Wandsworth programme delivers fresh developments.
Families in Battersea now feel more optimistic about the future after relocating to roomy new houses built as part of the houses for Wandsworth initiative.
Relocating to new residences that are less than ten minutes’ walk away has allowed for a new beginning in a familiar setting.
“It was a blessing when we got this property,”
says Shereen, 38, who recently moved to a newly-built two-bedroom home at Badric Court with her eight-year-old daughter.
“My daughter was born here in Battersea and has her school and community here. Being a single mum, this area is familiar. The neighbourhood is very good.
My daughter has already made friends, it is safe and the best thing about it is the space. She’s happy so I’m happy.”
The six additional residences at Badric Court were constructed beneath the current apartment complex as part of the Homes for Wandsworth initiative.
Every property built for council rent is distributed according to the council’s Local Lettings Plan, which gives preference to current council tenants in the neighborhood.
After relocating to Badric Court with her mother Favour and two of her siblings, Victoria is utilizing the extra space in their new four-bedroom apartment.
Victoria, a 24-year-old music production student, had trouble keeping the equipment she required for her studies organized, but now she has a dedicated space to practice.
“I find I have more room to study here as I need my microphone stands and keyboard,”
explains Victoria.
“I only just put the keyboard up because there was no space before. I used to have to keep my piano under my bed because I had no place for it. Now I finally have space for it.”
Angelica, a mother of one who has spent her entire life in Wandsworth, concurs that the additional residences have been a good development.
Angelica may now welcome family and friends to visit after moving from a neighboring studio apartment to a two-bedroom house.
“My family can visit now, whereas in my old flat I would never let anyone come around,”
says the 36-year-old.
“I’m very happy and settled now. It’s been a great move.”
The Homes for Wandsworth initiative is on course to construct more than 1,000 new homes by 2029, with two new developments at Randall Close and Patmore Street adding an additional 163 dwellings for council rent this summer.
At the Platts site in central Putney, an additional 12 council-rent dwellings are presently being developed; completion is anticipated in 2026.
Aydin Dikerdem, Cabinet Member for Housing, said:
“The Homes for Wandsworth programme is continuing to help local families make moves that are improving their happiness and wellbeing.
Making sure that people are not priced out of the area they call home is really important to us, so it’s great to see so many Wandsworth residents already benefitting in such a positive way from the new developments.”
What benefits do residents gain from moving into new council homes in Wandsworth?
The Homes for Wandsworth initiative helps families move off waiting lists or out of overcrowded housing by providing them with contemporary, well-designed council homes that offer a secure and respectable living environment.
Families are able to stay in places where they have roots and support systems because new homes are given preference to local residents.
In order to improve independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities, at least 10% of newly constructed homes are completely wheelchair accessible. These homes were created with expert advice.
Energy-efficient elements are incorporated into new construction to help residents live more sustainably and pay less for utilities.
In order to assist with rent payments, tenants may qualify for Housing Benefit or Local Housing Allowance. The council’s Financial Inclusion Team also offers further financial guidance and assistance.