Stafford and Rural Homes

April 10, 2006

Stafford and Rural Homes, in partnership with Connaught Partnerships, are set to embark on a sweeping £60m modernisation programme to improve housing stock within the towns and rural areas.

The start of the huge investment in peoples homes will commence at Shakespeare Road sheltered housing scheme which is set to benefit from internal works, improved access, environmental and safety improvements.

A ceremony to launch the investment scheme took place on Tuesday 18th April at 1.30 pm at the Shakespeare Road sheltered scheme in Highfield.

Karen Armitage, Chief Executive said:

”After managing Council homes in the Borough for more than 100 years, Stafford Borough Council handed over ownership and management of all its homes to the new housing association in February of this year. Tenants were assured of improved homes and affordable rents by looking at new ways to invest in the towns and rural areas. This is the start of our delivery of the promises made to you and we are pleased and excited to get on site so quickly after the transfer. A lot of hard work has been done by ourselves, Connaught and tenants who have had a huge role to play in the preparation for the new improvement schemes".

A range of improvements to homes across the borough are planned with works due to start in early May. Work will range from roofing repairs to kitchen replacements and improvements to heating and insulation to the 6,000 properties owned by Stafford and Rural Homes.

Connaught Area Director, Geoff Thomas, said: “Our dedicated Tenant Liaison Officers will work closely with tenants to ensure they are kept involved throughout every stage of the project and that minimal disruption is caused to their everyday lives”.