Celebrations to mark completion of £8 million regeneration scheme
Released: 16 March 2007
Celebrations were held today to mark the completion of an £8 million state-of-the-art regeneration scheme at three council-owned blocks of flats in Wolverhampton.
A ribbon cutting ceremony heralded the start of a new era for residents at Graiseley Court Sheltered Scheme, Russell Court and Grosvenor Court in Graiseley, following the major refurbishment of the tower blocks.
Wolverhampton City Council has carried out the project with its partner Bullock Construction Ltd. The work began in March 2005 and has featured a range of extensive internal and external improvements including the installation of cutting edge thermal efficiency measures.
MP Rob Marris today cut the ribbon to the refurbished flats, which were originally built in the late 1950s to early 1960s.
Councillor Elias Mattu, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community Safety, said: "I am extremely pleased that this flagship project is now complete and forms such a landmark on the city skyline.
“People tell me that they think this is an extremely impressive scheme which has improved their quality of life. As cabinet member for neighbourhoods and community safety I welcome the completion of this fantastic initiative."
Kerry Bolister, Chief Neighbourhood Renewal Officer at from Wolverhampton City Council, said: “The completion of this scheme is an important milestone in the regeneration of this area of the city.
“The project once again highlights the council’s commitment to investing in major developments to raise the profile of this area and the city as a whole. "
“It has enhanced the skyline of the city’s eastern gateway while creating environmentally efficient homes the community can really be proud of."
“The use of innovative design and architecture, which has created a new and exciting look and feel to these three blocks of 140 flats, will now be the benchmark and inspiration for future investment and design.”
Steve Daniels, Regional Director at Bullock Construction added: “We are delighted to have been the constructor partner on this prestigious regeneration project at Graiseley.
“The transformation of these blocks is outstanding."
Steve Daniels, Regional Director from Bullocks said “We are delighted to have been the constructor partner on this prestigious regeneration project at Graiseley. The transformation of these blocks is outstanding. The end result is a credit to the council, all those who have contributed and to the residents who live there.”
The works have included:
- The installation of photo-voltaic panels at Graiseley Court Sheltered Scheme. The panels use renewable energy from sunlight, resulting in cheaper operating bills and reduced carbon and carbon dioxide emissions from the building.
- Improved security to individual flats and the main entrances to all three blocks.
- New kitchens and bathrooms.
- External insulation and rain screen over-cladding to the facades of the buildings as well as new windows and heating systems, all contributing to the improved thermal efficiency of the blocks.
- Construction of new roof structures.
- Enclosing of balconies.
- Refurbishment of entrances to buildings.
- Redecoration of communal areas and new floor finishes.
- Landscaping and green/open space improvements.
- New lifts to provide improved access for all residents.
Detailed consultation with residents and stakeholders has taken place at every stage of the scheme and has been a key element in making the project a success. .
Improved security to all three blocks was a priority identified through this consultation with residents.
Resident Clarice Wallace, said: "I have been in the block for 47 years. I will be 92 this year and the oldest resident in the block. The overall improvements are fantastic. All visitors are amazed at the work and I feel very proud to be living here."
The oldest male resident, Tony Norris, who has also lived in the flats for 47 years said: “It has brought all the residents closer together. Everyone speaks and joins in activities. There is more of a community spirit.”
Jim Bunce, Tenants Representative for Graiseley Court Sheltered Scheme added that “the work has improved the block 500 per cent” and Sandra Baker, a warden at the sheltered scheme said: “The end result has greatly improved quality of life both for individual residents and together as a group who come together in the new communal room.”
The scheme has also incorporated employment and training opportunities for local people.
Issued by the press office.