The Hyde Group, recently welcomed The Rt Honourable Lord Andrew Adonis to Packington Estate in Islington, London, to learn more about its successful regeneration which began in 2007 and will be completed in 2018.
Lord Adonis said: “I enjoyed learning more about the work Hyde is doing developing commercially viable mixed tenure sites; Packington is a great example of this. It was also very informative to hear about Hyde’s innovative and collaborative approach to working with local authorities to deliver increased densities with sympathetic design and provide homes to those in housing need.”
Bernice Ramchandani, Head of Construction (London) explained some of the challenges and successes associated with replacing around 540 affordable homes with 791 new mixed tenure homes (including family homes) and with re-integrating the estate with the surrounding areas by re-establishing the Victorian street pattern and squares so typical of Islington.
Packington, which previously had a notorious reputation, is now seen as an exemplar scheme for affordable housing, winning numerous awards and being visited by VIPs such as His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales. Today it is home not only to the original estate, but also to buyers who desire to live there.
David Gannicott, Hyde’s Group Business Development Director, said: “Now, more than ever before, it is crucial that social housing providers work closer with local authorities to help them unlock the potential in their housing stock in the most cost effective way. Hyde is flexible and willing to explore innovative approaches alongside traditional joint venture models, to ensure local needs are met.”
Simon Peacock, Group Finance Director said: “Packington is a great example of Hyde investing significant funds into the homes and communities of current and future residents and providing quality new housing for the future.”
Hyde is committed to tackle the severe housing shortage by developing up to 1,500 mixed tenure homes a year, delivering quality management services and maximising life chances for residents.