VE Parrott (Oakley) Ltd has received a special commendation at the London Evening Standard’s New Homes Awards for an innovative social housing development in Luton. Working as part of a team with Aldwyck Housing Group, Marsh Farm Development Trust, PRP Architects, Calfordseadon and Luton Borough Council, VE Parrott constructed the contemporary Jeremiah Smith House in the Marsh Farm area of Luton.

The project received funding from the Homes and Communities Agency to aid the regeneration of the local area. The structure was designed to be a focal point and the local community were involved from the start.  Through Marsh Farm Development Trust, there was a consultation process, which included the new tenants who were being re-homed from an existing block of flats, to find out what they wanted for the new flats and the area. Six half-day taster sessions took place enabling 60 local residents and school students to look around the site. In addition, 21 trainees from the area had work experience on site for two days a week for the duration of the project, resulting in 420 training days and several trainees achieving NVQ Level 2.

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Employing local labour was important during the course of the build, with 27 per cent of all operatives living locally.  Full time security was also provided by a fledgling local company, Warriors Security.

The building is on the site of a former children’s home, which was demolished two years prior to building works, and contains 24 flats – 18 one bedroom flats and 6 two bedroom flats.  The three storey development has two blocks connected by a glazed roof, creating a light and airy central atrium area. Residents gain access to their properties from this communal area, which has been designed with community spirit in mind. It has been fitted out with modern glass and aluminium fixtures, and has plenty of seating, a lift, video door entry, and flower beds.

Energy efficiency was also taken into consideration during the build.  Lighting in the communal areas is powered by photo voltaic cells on the roof of one block. Energy efficient timber frames with thick, high quality insulation have been used, along with sustainable materials where possible. Residents can also benefit from high efficiency boilers.

Chris Layram, Managing Director, VE Parrott (Oakley) Ltd said: “This prestigious building came together due to a great working partnership with Aldwyck Housing Group and the Marsh Farm Community Development Trust, and builds on our portfolio of developments in the Luton area. It was an honour to have all of our efforts recognised by the Evening Standard New Homes Awards.”

Richard Broomfield, Executive Director of Development and New Business, Aldwyck Housing Group said: “The whole project proved to be a rewarding experience for Aldwyck, allowing us to give back to the community while providing some much-needed homes in the area. It was a great success to be given the award.”

The award ceremony took place at The Dorchester in London on Friday 13^th May, and was also attended by the Mayor of Luton, Tom Shaw.