The first residents have moved into their new homes at Ravensbury Grove marking a major milestone in a £1.3bn regeneration project being delivered by Clarion Housing Group.
21 homes for social rent with private outdoor spaces have been delivered by Clarion and contractor, United Living New Homes, in this first phase, despite opposition from residents.
The project will see 2,800 new homes built in Merton across the Eastfields and Ravensbury estates in Mitcham and High Path estate in Wimbledon.
Residents have previously expressed their concerns to Wimbledon Times over the project, with some stating that they do not want to move out of their homes.
The https://t.co/Xv9qA0hWtz investigation into the #RavensburyEstate demolition, eviction of residents, the regeneration of family homes to smaller properties, less green spaces, healthy mature tree felling etchttps://t.co/Y305oEvtMH pic.twitter.com/Hr3DX5ZRjV
— Mark Gale (@MarkGale) October 5, 2020
Results from a consultation in 2016 highlighted concerns over the regeneration - with responses stating that the redevelopment would "destroy the character and community feel" of the estate.
As part of plans, more than 200 of the new homes will be ear-marked for existing resident homeowners, offering them a new home at no additional cost on a full freehold or leasehold basis.
It's a huge scandal that residents weren't balloted in Ravensbury, High Path and Eastfields, and that Clarion 'regeneration' is focused on demolition and new builds, not refurbishment. Feels like two fingers up to democracy and environmentalism. https://t.co/Mvws6hDvMk
— Pippa Maslin (2021 London Assembly candidate) (@pippamaslin) October 6, 2020
Council authorities confirmed that residents will benefit from a new community centre, "better vehicle and pedestrian access" and improved public realm, including "lots of trees and green spaces."
The scheme will deliver 2,800 new high-quality homes, including 740 social rented homes, and 9,000m2 of commercial and community space across the three neighbourhoods.
Merton Council says that all existing residents will be rehoused in homes of an 'appropriate size', dealing with existing overcrowding.
Chief Executive of Clarion Housing Group, Clare Miller said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming residents to their brand new homes in a neighbourhood that they have helped shape. Regeneration means building new homes that meet residents’ needs now and in the future, but it’s not just about the homes.
"We’re investing in improvements to the neighbourhood for the community to enjoy, and are looking forward to seeing the next phases of our £1.3bn regeneration scheme take shape.”
United Living Group CEO and Chairman, Neil Armstrong said: “We are proud to have worked closely with Clarion to deliver such a key part in the regeneration of Ravensbury Grove.
"The 21 new homes will provide additional modern accommodation for the community and become a real centrepiece for the regeneration project.
"These along with future improvements to the area will boost the quality of life for current and future generations and create a truly lasting legacy.”
The ongoing work at Ravensbury will deliver a further 180 new homes.
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