RESIDENTS have started to move in to new homes in Norris Green, Liverpool, after a £4.5m development was completed – helping families to escape the Bedroom Tax.
Vacant land on the former Boot Estate in the Ellergreen area has been transformed to make way for 44 two–bedroom properties available for affordable rent.
Landlord Cobalt Housing says demand for these types of homes has increased since the Government introduced the ‘bedroom tax’ in April last year, reducing people’s housing benefit if they are deemed to have a ‘spare’ room.
Mum-of-one Claire , 30, moved in to her new semi-detached home after downsizing from a 3-bedroom house in the same area.
Claire, who works part time at a health centre, said: “I am so much happier in my new home and I have saved £48 a month as I no longer have to pay the Bedroom Tax.
“I was starting to get into rent arrears and I was worried about how I was going to manage.
“But now I have moved into a lovely home which is in a much nicer area with friendly neighbours. I feel as though I can start to get back on track with my finances.”
The Ellergreen development has been funded by Cobalt Housing, part of Symphony Housing Group, and with investment from the Homes and Communities Agency’s 2011-15 Affordable Homes Programme.
Stephen Simm, Project Officer at Cobalt Housing, said: “The new properties in Norris Green represent a significant milestone in the regeneration of the area.
“It is great news for North Liverpool. Not only are the properties providing new homes for local people, but they have transformed previously derelict land, helping to improve the area.
“The homes are precisely those that people need, particularly in light of the government’s welfare changes, including Bedroom Tax, which has seen an increase in demand for smaller, two-bedroom properties.”
The development is part of a wider project to transform North Liverpool, which also includes the construction of 38 one-bedroom flats and 24 two-bedroom houses on derelict land on Landford Avenue, Sparrow Hall. In addition, 35 flats, houses and bungalows are being built off Regal Road and Sceptre Road in Croxteth.
These new homes have been developed by New City Vision and Countryside Properties. The project has also helped generate local work and training opportunities, including apprenticeships for four young people from North Liverpool.
Tenants interested in the new homes can find out more on the Property Pool Plus website, or by calling 0330 303 2222.