Cheltenham Borough Homes (CBH) and Cheltenham Borough Council (CBC) have resumed building works to bring much-needed new homes to Cheltenham.
Following the coronavirus outbreak, contractor J Harper and Sons made the decision to temporarily pause construction works at the former site of Holy Name Hall. More than three months later, amid easing lockdown measures, construction work is underway once again.
CBC and CBH worked closely with J Harper and Sons to consider what changes they would need to make in order to plan a safe return to work.
Since then, J Harper and Sons has established its own specific Site Operating Procedures to ensure adherence to government guidelines, and Risk Assessments have been conducted to ensure the works are carried out safely and efficiently.
With the crew now able to return to work safely, building activity is once again underway on Pennine Road, where eight new homes are being built. The scheme is nearing a major milestone, with the timber framing almost finished.
“Safety remains top priority”
Councillor Peter Jeffries, CBC deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said: ‘‘I’m delighted to see the contractor’s team return safely and continue the works to meet the considerable demand for high quality homes in Cheltenham.’’
Paul Stephenson, CBH chief executive, said: “The safety of our contractors, customers and colleagues remains a top priority for us, and we’re really pleased that our contractor is once again in a position to re-start construction works safely.
“We’re delighted to be working with J Harper and Sons who are renowned for delivering high quality housing and now we’ve reached this significant new milestone, we’re excited to see the new homes begin to take shape.
“These homes will make a difference to the town and the people who live in it – building great communities as well as new homes.”
Supplying demand
The scheme is one part of CBC’s multi-million-pound Housing Investment Plan, which will see £100m invested in homes and communities in Cheltenham.
CBC and CBH continue to work with J Harper and Sons to ensure safety standards are maintained both on- and off-site.