Crouch End: MP visits inspiring housing development

To see how a housing estate in Crouch End has been transformed into high quality new homes, Lynne Featherstone MP last week visited Saxon Chase on Dickenson Road.

The original homes were purchased by housing association L&Q in 1987 and leased to Haringey Council to provide accommodation for their residents. With the end of the lease approaching and the homes nearing the end of their lifespan, the decision was made to seek planning approval to redevelop the site.

The new plans, which were completed towards the end of 2009, offer a mix of high quality homes for people on a range of incomes. This includes homes for outright sale, shared ownership and rent. Residents have benefited from improvements in building and design standards, energy efficiency, security and landscaping following previous issues with anti social behaviour, fly tipping and squatting.

A key theme of the development was the level of consultation between L&Q and the returning residents. A steering group of returning residents was involved from the outset and was given the chance to have input on fundamental design decisions. Even the name of the scheme was chosen by residents to reflect the area’s historical links with Saxon activity.

Lynne Featherstone MP comments:

“Housing is one of the biggest issues that local people raise with me, anything from the state of social housing and antisocial behaviour to having waited years for housing.

“That’s why its especially heart-warming to see this brand shining new example of what can be done with good design and by having local residents on board.

“I have spoken to many Saxon Close residents here today, and they are all proud of their new homes, they care about them and look after them. And who wouldn’t, these flats are amazing. Its clear that antisocial behaviour and squatting is a world away here. Really inspiring stuff!”

L&Q Chief Executive David Montague described the development as: “A perfect example of the benefits of partnership working. By using a collaborative approach with Haringey Council, our contractor and the Returning Residents Group we have been able to successfully deliver high quality homes that fully meet the needs of the residents. It was great to be able to discuss this with Ms Featherstone today and how housing associations can play a big part in delivering more much needed affordable homes in the future.”