Officials have hailed the start of a multi-million pound regeneration scheme in Barking and Dagenham.
The project, which will see total spending of almost £40 million, will see the construction of 170 new homes, a brand-new bus terminus and a pharmacy premises.
The Becontree Heath scheme is a partnership between Barking and Dagenham Council, the local authority’s own regeneration outfit Be First and construction giant Countryside.
The parties behind the development have said that the dwellings will be a major boost for the borough, with 87 of the one, two and three-bedroom properties classed as “affordable” housing.
Earlier this month, the Leader of the Council, Councillor Darren Rodwell, joined Andy Fancy, Countryside’s managing director, for a ground-breaking ceremony at the Becontree Heath site.
“Becontree Heath is a pioneering project that forms part of our vision for the borough and I am delighted to see the work begin,” said Councillor Rodwell.
“We are committed to providing homes with a range of tenures for our residents, including truly affordable rents that are the same as council housing in the borough.
“I have no doubt that this scheme will benefit the area and look forward to seeing its completion.”
The project is set to be completed in September next year and is notable for being the first development with a council-owned and run district heating network.
