Member Article

Wates Living Space hires locally for Hull PFI

Wates Living Space will be working to engage local sub-contractors on the £80m Hull Extra Care private finance initiative (PFI) scheme.

The affordable housing developer stated that approximately 80 sub-contractors will be employed to work on the project across three sites in the city. The first work will begin on Hawthorn Avenue this spring.

In addition, approximately 45 apprenticeships will be created, including positions for aspiring brickworkers, groundworkers, plumbers and electricians, providing opportunities for young people who are keen to get into the construction industry.

Wates Living Space was appointed to the scheme last year by housing association Riverside and its partner Hull City Council. The scheme will see the delivery of 316 apartments over three sites across the city, to provide much-needed housing for Hull’s more vulnerable adults. These include older people and people with disabilities, mental health problems and dementia.

Joanne Jamieson, Regional Managing Director for Wates Living Space, commented: “Wates Living Space endeavours to support the communities in which it builds as much as possible, creating numerous opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. We already have a strong supply chain network in Hull, which we will be building on in the coming months as work begins over the three sites. This, as we have seen in other areas where we have worked, will have a significantly positive impact on the local economy.

“We will also work together with local schools to engage pupils in the work we are doing and introduce them to the diverse career opportunities available in the construction industry.”

Julie Gray, Assistant Director Development and Regeneration for Riverside, commented: “Riverside’s partnership with Hull and Wates Living Space will provide opportunities for local people to gain construction qualifications. We are keen to invest in the communities in which we work, and the creation of apprenticeships and employment opportunities is something we are proud to promote. We believe this scheme will have a positive impact on the local community and its residents.”

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