Habinteg and Hounslow Council partnership complete 11th of 13 accessible developments | Latest news

Habinteg Housing Association has completed another accessible development in Hounslow, the eleventh of 13 small developments on infill sites created in partnership with Hounslow Council.

The block of seven flats includes two fully wheelchair accessible homes, and is located on the site of former garages on Hampton Road East in Feltham.

They bring Habinteg closer to its goal of building of 75 new accessible homes across three years for local individuals and families in Hounslow, including disabled people.

New beginnings 

Habinteg tenant, Desmond Crawford, is discovering that new beginnings can happen at any age. Mr. Crawford, 66, relocated from Bromley in southeast London to a one-bedroom flat in the Feltham development in June.

Mr Crawford had been on a council housing waiting list for almost two years and said he’s elated with his new home: “I love it… it’s spacious, modern and bright with windows everywhere, and a balcony...it’s really smart.”

The new tenant revealed he didn’t know much about Hounslow before he moved there, but he has been exploring the area as part of his keep-fit routine. “I’ve got a gym nearby, and I’ve been getting to know the area when I’m out running. I really like it.”

Greener, more efficient homes 

The Hampton Road East development is a two and three-storey modern brick building with a part gabled roof, surrounded by landscaped areas, designed by Levitt Bernstein architects.

It has triple glazing and a ‘fabric first’ construction which is designed to help reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency for its occupants.

The building is heated and cooled by a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery system and an air source heat pump, which improves indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption.

Sustainable small sites

Matthew Kelly, Habinteg’s Head of Development, said: “It’s great to see the completion of this scheme, which provides much-needed affordable, accessible housing for people in the area.

“It was a tricky infill site, which required careful construction management and sensitive consultation with existing residents. We’re proud to have achieved this balance in partnership with our builder, Star Contractors.”

Cllr Tom Bruce, Deputy leader of Hounslow Council and Cabinet member for Assets, Regeneration and Development, said: “We are pleased to be working with Habinteg to deliver high-quality, accessible homes for local families in Hounslow.

“This development is a great example of how we’re making the best use of small sites to meet the needs of our residents — including those with mobility challenges — while supporting local jobs. These are the kinds of homes that help build a fairer, more inclusive borough.”

The apartment block was built by Star Contractors. The family-owned building firm is based in Isleworth, Hounslow, and employs local people.