Housing Association transforms empty flats into family homes

Jephson Homes Housing Association has converted an empty block of flats in Doncaster into new family homes.

Jephson secured £216,000 of Housing Market Renewal (HMR) grant funding from Transform South Yorkshire, the HMR Conisbrough and Denaby Pathfinder, towards the £448,000 total cost of transforming the building in Sandbeck Court.

It originally comprised eight one-bedroom flats for which demand had fallen and the properties had been empty for five years, becoming a magnet for vandalism. Jephson took ownership of the site from Doncaster Council and recently completed work to convert it into four new four-bedroom houses.

Stuart Shore, director for Jephson’s North Region, said: “There is a national shortage of affordable family housing and Doncaster is no exception to this so we are delighted to provide these new family homes to help meet local need and residents moving in have told us they are thrilled with their new homes.”

Jephson worked closely with Doncaster Council and contractor Southdale on the project and all four families moving into the homes have been nominated by Doncaster Council.

Paul Moore, managing director for Southdale, which specialises in the construction of social and residential housing and public build projects, added: “As well as incorporating the latest design features, the new properties are equipped with solar panels which will provide sustainable living and greatly reduce energy bills for residents.

“We’re delighted that strong partnerships forged with Jephson and Doncaster Council have enabled this ambitious vision for Sandbeck Court to become a reality.”

Julie Mickevicius, who is moving into one of the houses with her three children, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us. The house is in a perfect location – close to work, on the doorstep of the school and near my parents. It is ideal for our needs and we are over the moon to be moving in.”