Plans drawn up for 152 affordable homes in Blackburn

Together Housing is partnering with Place Capital Group on proposals they hope to deliver off Hereford Road within the Whitebirk estate.

A housing mix comprising 46 one-bedroom apartments, 45 two-bedroom houses and apartments, 54 three-bed houses, and seven four-bed houses, would all be made available for affordable rent if plans are approved.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has received the proposals which the developers say would help meet clear demand for more affordable housing in the area.

Engagement and consultation have taken place with the community, a process that started almost three years ago.

Significant investment is also promised for the upgrade of green spaces such as the park off Hereford Road, with provision for play equipment, seating, open and accessible pathways, plants, and green space.

The homes would be energy efficient with proposals to include solar panels, air source heat pumps, and other systems as part of Together Housing’s ongoing commitment to help tackle climate change, the social landlord says.

Better parking facilities are another feature of the plans along with bike storage and private gardens and landscaped areas for the local community to enjoy.

Matthew Newman, assistant director for place shaping at Together Housing, said: “Together, with Place Capital Group, we want to ensure Place Shaping benefits the community and means residents feel their community is somewhere they can take deep pride in.

“These plans for the Whitebirk community have been created with residents at the forefront as it was important that we listened to feedback so that our proposals reflected residents’ views before submitting to the council.

“Residents have been open and honest about what they want to see from this investment and we’re eager to deliver these changes to create a lasting community in Whitebirk.”

The plans have still to be validated on Blackburn with Darwen Council’s planning portal.