Locals have been given a look at the new development on the Aylesbury Estate in Walworth for the first time.
The library, health centre and homes under construction on the estate were opened up by developers Notting Hill Genesis to a select few at an event last week (10 March).
The event, which took place at the partially constructed library on Thurlow Street, was the first opportunity for residents and other attendees to view the new homes they will be moving into and new library space.
Members of the over-55s residents group, who have been active in shaping the new homes, councillors from Southwark Council and staff from Notting Hill Genesis and Vistry Partnerships, site contractors, were present.
“I’m really looking forward to moving in as soon as possible,” said Jean Bartlett, one of the residents at the event, who has been involved in designing the new flats. “It’s so unique, especially to have these homes specifically for over-55s. There should be more of it.”
“I am downsizing so will miss having a garden, but that makes me so please we are having a roof garden with a big shed,” she added.
Attendees at the event also had the chance to check out architectural images of the project.
Once the work is complete, the new development on the Aylesbury will provide 122 homes, 23 of which will be socially rented housing offered to over-55s.
The remaining 99 properties will be rented at market rate by Notting Hill Genesis’s arm Folio London.
“We want to ensure the regeneration of the Aylesbury estate represents the best interests of local residents and businesses,” said John Hughes, Group director of development at Notting Hill Genesis.
“Residents have been at the forefront of informing the design of the new homes, attending regular meetings throughout the construction process,” he added.
This input included selecting the tiles and colours to be used in their new homes, as well as giving “valuable feedback” on bathroom fittings.”
There will also be a new library, named after the local poet, campaigner for equality and first female black programme maker at the BBC, Una Marson. It will contain a workspace, 21 workstations and a dedicated children’s area.
Plus there will be a new health centre, offering services from Guy’s and St Thomas’ and GP surgeries, a pharmacy and new cafe.
“These state-of-the-art buildings will offer better and essential services to our local residents,” said Cllr Stephanie Cryan, cabinet member for council homes and homelessness.
“The over-55s homes are among the new social rent homes available on the site, built so residents can afford to stay in the area they know and love,” she added.
Southwark Council came under fire last month for spending an a further £30 m on redeveloping the Aylesbury estate, although they claimed this money was already planned.