20 Jul 2010

Design awards shortlist for Wirral regeneration project

A newly-built development in Wirral was shortlisted for the national Housing Design Awards.

Sevenoaks in Rock Ferry is now complete, after a long regeneration process that involved consulting local people every step of the way.

Formerly known as Fiveways, the estate was originally built in the late 19^th century to house the area's growing workforce, but had fallen into decline in recent decades, with low levels of owner-occupiers and a rise in crime and anti-social behaviour.

A partnership between Wirral Council, Housing Market Renewal pathfinder NewHeartlands and social housing specialist Riverside has resulted in the complete transformation of the neighbourhood, making it one of the most sought-after locations in the area.

Sevenoaks, which was designed by DK-architects and Planit EDC, reached the final list for the prestigious National Housing Design Awards. Although they were not named as final winners, being shortlisted was a real honour.

The homes on Sevenoaks range from bungalows to large houses for growing families, come equipped for modern living, and have extra touches such as solar panels for sustainability. The area also benefits from enhanced landscaping and a park.

The scheme has also been shortlisted for the prestigious Government HCA Awards, and was recently the subject of a glowing review by Sarah Allen, head of urban design and homes at the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, who described it in Property Week as a 'delightful new neighbourhood'.

Dave Gilkes, from DK-Architects, said: "The project has been a fantastic collaboration to bring about a transformational change."