The former Virgin Media offices on Daleside Road, Nottingham, have been transformed into a thriving community of 82 affordable homes.
The development, officially opened by Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA), breathes new life into a disused space, providing much-needed affordable housing close to the city centre.
The thoughtfully-designed scheme offers a range of homes, including one-bedroom flats and two and three-bedroom houses to rent or purchase via shared ownership. The homes have proven to be immensely popular, with all but the final few apartments already occupied.
Beyond its affordability, the development sets a strong standard for environmentally sustainable living. Built by GEDA Construction and designed by Pelham Architects, the homes boast an impressive energy rating of ‘B’, minimising energy consumption and carbon emissions. The energy efficient houses are constructed of a timber frame and all homes benefit from high levels of insulation and 100% low energy lighting.
Speaking at the opening, Allan Fisher, Director of Development and Sustainability at NCHA, expressed his satisfaction with the project, highlighting its role in fostering a vibrant community. “We’re delighted to see these quality new homes completed,“ he stated. “It’s an attractive scheme and provides a superb opportunity for people to be part of a fantastic and thriving local community. This is what NCHA is about; people, communities, and ambition.”
The circa £15 million development was funded by a collaborative effort between NCHA and Homes England, aligning with NCHA’s Strategic Partnership 2021-2026, which aims to deliver new, affordable housing across the East Midlands.
Cllr Jay Hayes, Nottingham City Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Planning, said: “I’m delighted to see another new development of much-needed affordable homes completed. NCHA is making a really important contribution to helping people to find a place to live. Affordability is a real challenge for many people in Nottingham and across the country, and it’s a key objective of our city’s housing strategy to find ways to deliver more homes to meet this need.
“This development is also another contribution towards the wider residential redevelopment of the Waterside.“
Chris Stinson, Associate Director at GEDA Construction, echoed the sentiment of community and positive change, adding, “At GEDA Construction, we are proud to have contributed to a development that not only revitalises an underutilised site but also strengthens the local community. This project offers affordable, sustainable homes and provides a foundation for future generations to flourish and build a brighter future in Nottingham.”
The transformation of the former Virgin Media offices represents a significant step towards addressing the ongoing need for affordable housing in Nottingham. By providing a diverse range of homes that are both affordable and environmentally sustainable, NCHA is contributing to the wellbeing of local residents and building a brighter future for the city.
