Liverpool prepares to hand over land for Dingle community-led housing
The Florrie Community Land Trust is on the brink of securing a trio of publicly owned plots around the grade two-listed Florence Institute to pave the way for affordable homes.
Liverpool City Council is close to agreeing the transfer three plots off Mill Street in Dingle that are earmarked for redevelopment into 97 homes for social rent.
The land trust, born out of the 130-year old community institute, hopes the project will go some way to addressing the need for good quality affordable homes in a deprived area of the city.
The Florrie CLT is working with architect Brock Carmichael on the scheme’s design and Sovini Housing Group is lined up to operate the scheme.
“This is a monumental moment for The Florrie and for community-led housing across the country”, said Roy Williams, chief executive of the Sovini Group.
“Our involvement in this journey has been incredibly rewarding, witnessing first-hand the dedication and passion throughout the community to shape their own future. The Florrie is directly addressing the pressing need for local affordable housing and economic opportunities.
“This pioneering initiative with Liverpool City Council is empowering a community to take ownership of local housing demand and is a flagship example of what can be achieved when local authorities listen to their communities. I believe this model will inspire similar projects nationwide.”
As well as 97 homes, the project would feature managed workspace for 11 SMEs, dedicated green open spaces, and a public courtyard adjoining the Florence Institute.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Liverpool City Region cabinet member for housing and regeneration, said: “In the midst of a housing crisis it is vital that we explore innovative ways to create the affordable social housing we so urgently need.
“This transfer of land to a well-loved community-led organisation to enable them to build nearly 100 homes is exactly the kind of creative approach we need to adopt. That’s why we are supporting the project’s development and I look forward to seeing it become a reality.”
