Landmark building rejuvenates gateway to town

Festivities were held to celebrate the opening of Charrington House, a new affordable housing development that has rejuvenated the gateway into Burton on Trent.

Council leaders, dignitaries, local school children and street entertainers joined project partners Trent & Dove, Loughborough-based contractor and developer William Davis Ltd and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) to witness Burton MP Andrew Griffiths cut the ribbon to officially open 34 ‘city living’ apartments on the site of the former Trading Standards offices.

Designed in close consultation with planners and the local community, Charrington House reflects both the heritage of the town and the iconic building that once occupied its prominent position opposite the Magistrates Court and adjacent the Trent & Dove HQ on Horninglow Street.

The £3.5 million development comprises 16 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments available for shared ownership and social rent. As well as offering parking and a communal landscaped area, the building is fitted with photo-voltaic panels.

Ron Dougan, chief executive, Trent & Dove said: “Charrington House is our flagship scheme in Burton. Located on a key gateway to the town centre, the new building has transformed the area with its modern exterior that also reflects Burton’s proud brewing heritage.

“We would like to thank all those who made Charrington House possible, including the Homes and Communities Agency for their £1.4 million investment into the scheme, Burton Civic Society and East Staffordshire Borough Council planners who gave helpful advice on design, the architects and builders, and our development team here at Trent & Dove Housing.”

Eddie Davis, chairman, William Davis Ltd added: “This development has breathed new life into the entrance to the town of Burton upon Trent and we are extremely proud to have been part of this transformation.

“Our relationship with Trent & Dove has flourished over the past few years and the celebrations here are a testament to the significance of both the rejuvenation of the area and the steadfast partnership.