Intervention by Derbyshire Dales District Council has transformed five neglected properties in the heart of Monyash into fabulous refurbished eco-friendly homes for local people.
Working with Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA), the Council has funded the improvements - including a retrofit of energy efficiency measures and renovation - after taking over a 125 year lease from the Palfreyman Trust, which owns the freehold of the land. The original development was opened by HRH Princess Alexandra in 1993. Three of the revamped homes in Soldiers Croft, all of which feature solar panels and battery technology, are currently available for rent to local people with a connection to Monyash. Applications can be made through the Home Options service at www.home-options.org
The District Council's Director of Housing, Rob Cogings said:
"The Palfreyman Trust wanted to change the management of the homes after the properties became run down to the extent that three were unoccupied. We were the only registered provider interested in taking on the properties and we are delighted with the upgrades carried out by NCHA, who will manage the rentals on our behalf."
District Council Leader Councillor Steve Flitter, who attended a viewing of the homes last week with Trust members and councillor colleagues including Civic Vice-Chair Councillor Peter Slack and ward member Councillor Laura Mellstrom, said:
"It's absolutely vital that we as a Council do everything we can to provide affordable homes in rural areas and small villages for local people who want to remain in their local community.
"The renovation work carried out in Soldiers Croft is first rate and the backdrop of fields and countryside is beautiful."
Palfreyman Trust Secretary/Treasurer John Caws said:
"Trustees were increasingly concerned that Soldiers Croft had become a blight on the village landscape and first sought a change in its management nearly four years ago. We were especially troubled that three of the five properties were uninhabitable and are now really appreciative of the District Council's work in refurbishing the homes to such a high standard."
Soldiers Croft comprises one three-bedroomed house, three two-bedroomed houses and one two-bedroomed bungalow.
Claudine Edwards, Development and New Business Manager at NCHA, said:
“We’re delighted to have completed the improvements and be breathing new life into these homes. The quality and finish along with the new energy measures make these homes fit for the future.”
