Wokingham Borough Council’s Gorse Ride regeneration has taken a further step forward with demolition of the former Cockayne Court Care Home and surrounding properties now underway.
Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr John Kaiser, joined Wokingham Housing (WHL) chair Cllr Alistair Auty, ward member Cllr Simon Weeks, and senior council staff including Tenant Liaison and Improvement Panel chair, Steve Bower (and Freddie) to see the demolition first hand.
Planning permission for the first phase of the Gorse Ride South regeneration was granted in October. The site was then transferred to the council’s-owned development company WHL which will oversee construction of the 46 new homes in this phase of the scheme. These new homes will be available for existing homeowners on the estate to buy alongside social rent and shared ownership options.
“It’s never an easy decision to knock down houses to make way for new homes, but for Gorse Ride South, we believe this marks a truly positive change for the area,” said Cllr Kaiser. “The former residents of Cockayne Court and the surrounding bungalows are now happily housed elsewhere in the Borough and this site will now be used for much needed local affordable housing.”
Cllr Auty said: “WHL was established seven years ago with developments like this in mind. Our proven track record, including the regeneration of Phoenix Avenue in Wokingham, shows how WHL can take an older style estate and transform it into good quality housing with a mix of homes for local people. We’re excited that this site is moving forward.”
Demolition for this phase of the development is expected to be completed by Christmas. Building work is due to start in 2019 once a construction contractor is appointed.
