New low-cost homes unveiled

4.49.07pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 21st Apr 2008

• A NEW development of affordable riverside homes was officially opened this week.

Amelia House in Strand Drive, Kew, is the result of a partnership between Richmond Council, Thames Valley Housing and the construction company, St George West London. There are 48 new homes, half of them for affordable rent. The remainder are being provided under the New Build Home Buy Scheme, which enables first-time buyers to own their own home on a part buy, part rent basis. The £9.3 million scheme was jointly funded by Richmond Council and Thames Valley Housing.

Five of the rented properties have been allocated to people with learning disabilities. The borough has commissioned a key ring service for these tenants, enabling them to live independently in their own homes with support from a community volunteer who will also live on site. The remaining rented properties will be let to borough residents from the Council's waiting and transfer lists.

Richmond Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing, Cllr Denise Carr, said: "We are delighted to have played our part in making this project a reality and bringing more affordable homes within people's reach. The homes and facilities for people with learning disabilities are specially welcome. The partnership approach between the Council, Thames Valley and St George's, has really reaped rewards."