Nine 19 th century cottages in Horncastle are being given a new lease of life following a major investment by Platform Housing Group and East Lindsey District Council.
Platform is investing in the comprehensive refurbishment of nine one bedroom cottages in Waring Street, helping to safeguard their future as affordable homes for local people.
The £613,000 programme has been made possible with the support of £250,000 in grant funding from East Lindsey District Council (ELDC) and will see the properties extensively modernised while preserving the character of the historic terrace.
Built during the 1840s and 1850s, the cottages sit within the Horncastle Conservation Area. Although the properties themselves are not listed, their location means refurbishment work must meet conservation requirements.
Platform carried out a detailed review of the homes following longstanding issues including damp and mould, ageing components and poor energy efficiency. Seven of the nine properties had become vacant, with extensive surveys identifying the significant investment needed to bring all nine up to modern standards.
A range of options was considered, including selling the properties. Platform worked with the council to develop a strong case for retaining and investing in the cottages, recognising the need for affordable housing locally and the importance of protecting the supply of smaller homes in Horncastle.
The programme will address damp and mould and roof and building fabric issues, improving the home’s energy efficiency. Kitchens and bathrooms will be modernised and key components including windows and doors replaced, with work carried out sympathetically to their conservation area setting.
Rob Main, Head of Asset Optimisation at Platform Housing Group said:
“Waring Street is a great example of why looking at the long term future of our homes is about much more than bricks and mortar.”
“These cottages require significant investment and we carefully considered all the options available to us. Retaining them as affordable housing was important, particularly given the need for smaller affordable homes in the area.”
“Working closely with East Lindsey District Council has enabled us to find a solution which protects these homes for the future while also respecting their historic surroundings.”
“Once complete, the work will make a real difference to the quality, comfort and energy efficiency of the cottages, and, importantly, ensure they can continue providing affordable homes for local people for years to come.”
The partnership with ELDC has been central to making the project viable, with the council approving £250,000 towards the refurbishment programme.
Councillor William Gray, East Lindsey District Council Portfolio Holder for Communities and Better Ageing, said:
“I am delighted that we have been able to support this important investment in Waring Street, which preserves part of Horncastle's unique character and heritage, whilst securing the future of nine much needed affordable homes.”
“Making the best use of existing housing is an important part of meeting local need, and this project demonstrates what can be achieved when partners work together to find a long-term solution.
“The refurbishment will bring these cottages up to a much-improved standard while retaining affordable housing with the town, and we look forward to seeing them brought back into full use for the benefit of local residents”
The project will ensure all nine cottages remain within the affordable housing stock, while improving their condition and energy performance and preserving a distinctive row of historic homes within Horncastle.