Latest SARH project delivers boost for town centre living

A £4.6 million development by the area’s leading Housing Association is set to make the centre of Stafford a prime location for people looking for an affordable home close to the town’s shops, offices and leisure attractions.

Work is well underway on site at Friars Garden, and when complete the development by Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH) will include a mix of quality apartments and homes for both rent and shared ownership.

As well as providing homes to meet local needs, the flagship scheme is also set to play a significant role in the rejuvenation of the town centre and the new properties have been designed to incorporate distinct Victorian architectural features to complement surrounding buildings.

Karen Armitage, SARH Chief Executive, explained: “A thriving, sustainable town centre needs affordable homes for people who work there; from those who help maintain essential services to employees of the many businesses located in the heart of Stafford.

“Some of the properties will also be ideal for people looking to downsize from a larger home, or who just want to be closer to local amenities and not have to rely on a car so much.”

“SARH is committed to helping to meet local housing needs and this latest project – which will be completed later this year, as we celebrate our tenth anniversary – demonstrates continued investment in providing the right mix of housing for Stafford and surrounding areas.”

Located off Friars Terrace on the site of the old County Council library depot, the scheme consists of 43 homes, including 18 two bedroom apartments; 17, two bedroom and eight, three bedroom homes. Of these, 34 will be available to rent with the remainder set aside for shared ownership.

The project has received £860,000 grant support from the Homes and Communities Agency and also has the backing of Stafford Borough Council.

During a recent visit to look at progress so far on site, Jeremy Pert, Cabinet Member for Communities, commented: “SARH continues to invest in providing top quality homes for people in the area and Friars Garden is the latest in a long line of prestigious developments that support the growth ambitions of Stafford Borough.”

The housing association’s construction partner at Friars Garden is Seddon, and the firm’s Managing Director, Jonathan Seddon, added: “This development is part of an ambitious plan that will see Stafford and Rural Homes deliver 300 new affordable homes across its communities, addressing real housing need in the area.

“It is a programme we are delighted to be able to support and we look forward to working with SARH to make its development dreams become a reality.”

Further information about Friars Garden, including details on how to become a SARH customer, are available by visiting the social landlord’s website at www.sarh.co.uk.