Member Article

Helping to change the face of Sunderland

A North East housing association has taken a step forward in its plans to help regenerate a local community within Sunderland. Three Rivers Housing Group, based in Durham, has began the development of 20 new affordable homes which will include a mixture of properties for rent and shared ownership to help people to get onto the property ladder.

The scheme at Florida Street in Pallion Park sees a further expansion to an existing development of 50 homes for rent making 70 homes in total. The group received grant funding from the Housing Corporation for the development, and home will meet all Housing Corporation standards as well as being constructed using eco friendly timber frames.

Craig Downs, Marketing & PR Manager at Three Rivers said: “The project that Three Rivers are undertaking in Pallion Park is more than simply a housing scheme, it’s about helping to regenerate a local community and provide on going support. Our officers are working in partnership with residents, community groups and the Police to help sustain the local community. We have been working on a number of initiatives over the last couple of years by investing and supporting community projects, enhancing the local environment and talking to residents to find out what their priorities and aspirations are.”

Three Rivers have also helped to form the ‘Millfield Action Youth Group’ to combat anti-social behaviour caused by local youths and is supported by various service providers including the police and local residents.

Damian Wilkinson, Neighbourhood Services Manager at Three Rivers said: “Pallion has had its problems in the past particularly with issues of anti-social behaviour. It is encouraging to see residents and the organisation working together to help improve the area and capitalise on the great work that has already been achieved. “The work we are undertaking in and around Pallion will undoubtedly lay the foundations for future generations.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .