Date: 15TH NOVEMBER 2006
Ruth Rendell, the world-renowned crime writer and Suffolk-based member of the House of Lords, is due to turn the first sod on November 24th in an innovative affordable housing development that shows what can be achieved by different groups working together for the same purpose.
Baroness Rendell of Babergh has campaigned for a number of years on the issue of increasing the supply of low-cost homes in rural parts of the country, including Suffolk. She has lent her support to the new scheme at Elmswell near Bury St. Edmunds not only because 25 new homes are being made available for local people, but because of the way the community has been involved in the process and the environmentally friendly nature of the designs.
'The Field of Dreams' scheme has seen the Suffolk Preservation Society (SPS) , the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Orwell Housing Association and Mid Suffolk District and Elmswell Parish Councils working together to identify a clear need for affordable homes, a suitable site and ways of funding the properties. After a nationwide selection process that included the views of Elmswell residents from the outset, with the requirement that the properties be as energy efficient as possible, architects Riches Hawley Mikhail were chosen to turn the ideas into a reality.
Richard Ward, Director of SPS said "in Suffolk the demand for affordable homes continues to outstrip the supply. This scheme has shown what can be achieved in terms of quality and quantity when there is the will and co-operation between key partners, including local residents. The mystery of how to solve this problem has surely been solved".
“SPS expects that the standard of all future affordable house building in the county will at least match that achieved at Elmswell which we believe has set a new benchmark. There can be no excuses for anything less by all involved in affordable housing provision”.
Stephen Javes, Chief Executive of Orwell Housing Association said “We are proud to be involved with our partners in this project, Suffolk Preservation Society, Royal Institute of British Architects, The Housing Corporation and in particular Mid Suffolk District Council and Elmswell Parish Council because of their forward thinking in terms of supporting the scheme and making the land available.”
“The development will provide an excellent opportunity to allow innovative design and assess a number of environmental energy saving technologies. This commitment to the development is demonstrated by the substantial financial input to the houses by the Association.”ENDS
Notes to Editors
Media outlets are welcome to attend the sod turning ceremony where Ruth Rendell will be available for short interviews.
The ceremony is scheduled for 12.30pm on 24th November at Jubilee Terrace, Elmswell IP30.
Please confirm your attendance with Paul Simon on (01473) 829171 or 0776 4195331