Oldham PFI partners seal the deal

The Inspiral consortium, comprising Regenter, Great Places Housing Group and Wates Living Space, has today announced that it has completed a deal on the Gateways to Oldham housing and regeneration PFI Project.

The public private partnership will transform the four ‘gateway’ neighbourhoods of Crossley, Fitton Hill, Westwood and Primrose Bank.

In accordance with the agreed design master plan, the initial phase of the project will involve the construction of 420 new social and private homes, the modernisation and refurbishment of 318 existing council homes and the demolition of some existing properties. Public open spaces, improved car parking and new community facilities also form an integral part of the project.

Inspiral will deliver the ongoing neighbourhood and local area management, and repairs and maintenance services for the full duration of the 25 year Private Finance Initiative contract. Construction is expected to start in the New Year, with the build programme expected to last until early 2015.

Regenter is the lead investor, developer and manager for the project. Great Places Housing Group is co-investor and developer and will provide neighbourhood and estates management services whilst Wates Living Space will be responsible for the building and refurbishment work and will also run the repairs contract.

Councillor David Hibbert, cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said: “This project is about more than just bricks and mortar. It is about creating new communities with a reinvigorated spirit and a renewed sense of pride. As well as new homes, two new purpose-built community centres will also be provided on the Crossley and Primrose Bank estates, and new retail units developed at Crossley. These neighbourhoods will also see the provision of new park and open spaces for the enjoyment of residents. In the near future, there will also be new opportunities for local residents to seek construction jobs and training places.”