A significant renovation project led by United Living has transformed 100 council homes in the area, making them asbestos-free and modernizing their facilities. Complaints to the local authority led to the renovations, which began after the presence of asbestos was found in the homes in early 2021. Over two-and-a-half years, the project involved extensive work to ensure the properties met contemporary living standards.
Dave Platts, one of the site managers with main contractor United Living, managed the renovations. He initiated or completed dozens of betterments that greatly improved the quality of life within the city for its residents. The complicated modernization process included replacement of 77 complete heating systems and electrical rewiring in 102 homes. The initiative was able to add 95 new kitchens and 87 new bathrooms. It introduced 96 more toilets downstairs for added convenience.
The renovations did not stop there. The project enabled the replacement of 107 front doors and 110 rear doors to improve security and aesthetics. To improve living conditions further, 120 properties received full window replacements, and 106 homes were fitted with extractor fans to combat damp and mould issues. In addition to risk mitigation during a potential emergency, all 100 lofts were retrofitted with fire-resistive construction to improve resident safety.
Platts emphasized the positive impact of the renovations, stating, “These properties are now asbestos-free, have new kitchens, new bathrooms and are homes for the 21st Century.” It is his commitment to creating a better place for all residents to live that has echoed the loudest throughout the community.
Reflecting her excitement for what the TIF investment would create, Councillor Virginia Moran called it a transformational project, stating, “We have invested to literally create new homes in historic shells. She said she was pleased with how it turned out, noting how residents are responding to the new street changes. Moran added, “They feel like they’ve moved into a new house. It’s like we’ve turned around and said ‘have a new house’ but you have all the same neighbours, the same friends and you still have your garden.”
