Work is under way to build 55 new affordable homes in Tipton as part of a regeneration project set to bring wide-ranging benefits to the town centre.
Sandwell Council, together with Torsion Construction Ltd, held a groundbreaking ceremony (15 October) to officially mark the start of building much-needed council homes in Union Street.
Town centre businesses are open as usual throughout the works.
Artist impression of new homes being built in Union Street, Tipton – ONE Creative environments (ONE)
The development forms part of the town’s regeneration programme, with the council working to regenerate under-used land, improve public spaces and increase the number of high-quality, energy-efficient homes for local people.
The council has appointed Torsion Construction Ltd to build the 55 new council apartments on cleared sites either side of Union Street.
The council is leading the project, working closely with Torsion, local stakeholders and the supply chain. The project will generate construction job opportunities and support local apprenticeships.
Alongside this, and following planning approval in May, the council is now working to appoint a construction partner to refurbish and extend the former Conservative Club, also in Union Street. This scheme will provide a further 15 new homes while giving a much-loved locally listed heritage building a new lease of life.
The overall regeneration project – which is supported by £20million of government funding (Local Regeneration Fund) plus investment from Sandwell Council – also includes improvements along Owen Street and to public spaces in the town. This will improve safety and access to the shopping precinct and canal walkway for pedestrians.
Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Sandwell Council Leader, said: “People in Tipton have told us they want to see more investment in their town. This project is a clear example of how we are supporting Tipton now and for the future.
“I am excited to see work under way on a project that will not only provide much-needed new homes for local people but also improve the town centre.
“With more people coming to live in the town centre and the improvements to public spaces, our aim is to boost footfall and support our Tipton businesses and traders.
“Work starting on site represents a major milestone for the project, which will set a new benchmark for the quality and sustainability of affordable apartments in the Sandwell.”
The council’s Urban Design and Building Services team was closely involved in the design of the new homes.
Torsion Group’s involvement in Tipton carries local significance. Dan Spencer, CEO of Torsion Group, has strong ties to the Midlands, and the business is committed to delivering projects that create long-term value for the area.
This scheme is Torsion’s first-ever public sector housing project – and the council is committed to working with them to make it a real success for Sandwell and for people in Tipton.
Priesh Soni, Regional Midlands Director, Torsion Construction, said: “We are pleased to be working with Sandwell Council to deliver much-needed, energy-efficient homes in Tipton.
“This project aligns with our approach to sustainable regeneration and will provide quality housing, local jobs and long-term benefits for the town.”
Andy Crompton, Director – Riddell TPS, Asset Managers for Tipton Centre, said: “During the eight years we have owned Tipton Centre, we have worked closely with the council to support their regeneration plans for the benefit of local businesses and residents.
“As part of the current project we sold a section of our land to help the council increase the number of homes they are building.
“Working together, we also successfully relocated the Post Office and a second business into Tipton Centre. This helped to move along the regeneration while importantly retaining key services within the town centre for local people.