Colchester City Council (CCC) and Colchester Borough Homes (CBH) are delighted to announce their selection as finalists in three categories at the Essex Housing Awards 2024. The three awards they have been shortlisted for are "Meeting Housing Need" and "Small Housing Schemes," recognising their work in providing exceptional housing solutions for Colchester residents. Additionally, CBH officer Joe Orves has been nominated for the Mo Slade Rising Star Award.
The Essex Housing Awards, held in association with Birketts LLP, celebrate excellence in the housing sector. This year’s awards saw a significant increase in entries, reflecting the growing strength of the Essex housing industry.
The Silver Band Close development in Boxted is the project shortlisted for these prestigious awards. This new development, which has already been fully let, was delivered by CCC and CBH. It comprises four one-bedroom maisonettes, two two-bedroom bungalows, and one four-bedroom wheelchair-accessible home, addressing a range of housing needs in the local community. The bungalows and ground floor maisonettes include accessible wet rooms.
Named to commemorate Boxted’s Methodist Silver Band’s 125th anniversary, the only surviving Methodist Silver Band in England, these council-owned homes will be let to residents on the housing register. The smaller units will offer an opportunity for people to downsize, freeing up larger family homes in the area.
This project represents a significant milestone in the council’s commitment to providing 350 new council-owned properties by the end of 2024. These properties will comprise of both newly built and former council homes acquired through the buy-back programme. The new homes being built aim to achieve the Future Homes Standard, featuring energy-efficient features such as air source heat pumps, double glazing, LED lighting, and increased insulation. The development was made possible through grant funding from Homes England and the council’s Housing Revenue Account.
CBH officer Joe Orves has been shortlisted for the Mo Slade Rising Star Award for his exceptional contribution to service improvement through the innovative use of IT systems. Joe’s work has streamlined processes, enhanced efficiency, and improved customer satisfaction.
Commenting on the shortlisting, Cllr Paul Smith, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “I am delighted that the council has been shortlisted for these prestigious Essex Housing Awards. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and the successful partnership between the council and CBH.
“The Silver Band Close development is an excellent example of our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable housing that meets the needs of our residents. I am particularly proud of the development’s energy-efficient features, which align with our Climate Emergency Action Plan.
“This achievement brings us one step closer to our goal of delivering 350 new council-owned homes by the end of 2024. I look forward to celebrating our achievements at the awards ceremony.”
Philip Sullivan, Chief Executive of CBH, added: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for the Essex Housing Awards 2024. Silver Band Close is a prime example of our partnership with Colchester City Council to deliver much-needed housing for the community. This recognition, along with Joe Orves’ nomination for the Mo Slade Rising Star Award, highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional housing solutions and developing our talented workforce.”
The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 7 November 2024 at the Greenwoods Hotel.
Page last reviewed: 18 September 2024