Privett Green is a development of 148 new eco-homes which have replaced the 58 pre-cast reinforced concrete (REEMA) properties, constructed after the Second World War to provide a speedy solution to the housing crisis at that time. It was anticipated that they would have a useful life of 30 years. Whilst they had considerably outperformed that expectation, they had a number of defects that made them unmortgageable and in need of considerable investment to bring them nearer to modern Decent Homes Standards in terms of heating and insulation.
Residents from the former council estate on the outskirts of the historic market town of Petersfield were given the opportunity to decide between two options for the future of the estate: redevelopment or refurbishment. A ballot was held, with the vast majority of residents expressing a preference for the redevelopment option.
From the very start of the project at the end of 2003, residents were fully consulted and involved at every stage. A Steering Group of residents was elected and a drop-in centre was provided on-site to answer any questions or worries.
Privett Green is a development of 148 new eco-homes which have replaced the 58 pre-cast reinforced concrete (REEMA) properties, constructed after the Second World War to provide a speedy solution to the housing crisis at that time. It was anticipated that they would have a useful life of 30 years. Whilst they had considerably outperformed that expectation, they had a number of defects that made them unmortgageable and in need of considerable investment to bring them nearer to modern Decent Homes Standards in terms of heating and insulation.
Residents from the former council estate on the outskirts of the historic market town of Petersfield were given the opportunity to decide between two options for the future of the estate: redevelopment or refurbishment. A ballot was held, with the vast majority of residents expressing a preference for the redevelopment option.
From the very start of the project at the end of 2003, residents were fully consulted and involved at every stage. A Steering Group of residents was elected and a drop-in centre was provided on-site to answer any questions or worries. Consultations were also held with pupils of the Senior School located adjacent to the site to ascertain what the pupils who lived in the REEMA homes required from the development. This consultation period has been a major factor in the success of the project and involvement of the residents.
John Venning, Chair Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (Hampshire) commented: “One of the beauties of this development is that by consultation with the residents, the community has been built into it.”
Richard Holmans, Managing Director Croudace Homes in Partnership, commented: “One of the most enjoyable schemes we’ve worked on, particularly the partnerships with Drum, the designers and the residents. It was a complex scheme, with several phases of rehousing, but we’re very pleased with the end product.”
Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Nigel Atkinson said, “This is a text book example of how well developers can work with communities. There are many positives including the ability to sell electricity back to the National Grid. Full marks to everyone involved.”
The homes have been built in a series of courtyards and landscaped areas, each one designed to provide a comfortable, spacious, thermally efficient and enjoyable living environment for residents.
The project is the winner of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (Hampshire) 2009 Countryside & Design Award for its environmental qualities. It also contributed to Drum Housing Association winning the Housing Corporation’s Gold Award for Excellence in 2007.
John Venning, Chair Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (Hampshire), “This is a splendid example of local people getting together to protect what they value in rural areas. Drum looked closely at the existing housing and saw the potential to create something more. We are honoured to be associated with Drum and what they’ve done for Petersfield and Hampshire as a whole.”
Privett Green also received acclaim by being recently awarded “Best Village/ Town Initiative” at the Life in Petersfield Business and Community Awards. The award recognises projects that have benefited residents or the community. The development has also been entered for other national awards this year.
Debbie Harvey, Senior Project Manager, Radian, “Privett Green is undoubtedly attributable to the contributions made by the residents during the detailed consultation process. Listening and investing in the needs and aspirations of residents has culminated in homes of choice and has developed a forward-thinking community. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the community helping them to reach their goal.”