Changes Ahead for North Cray Scheme
Bexley Council's new administration is re-examining the scheme to redevelop the site of the former primary school in Bedens Road, North Cray.
The new Cabinet has ordered a review of the allocation of the new homes being built on the site - after listening to the views of local people.
A report was considered at the meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday, 21 June, when it authorised negotiations with the Housing Corporation and London and Quadrant to make the proposed changes.
Council officers were instructed to draw up details of a local lettings plan incorporating opportunities for more home ownership and measures to ensure the scheme's long-term sustainability and popularity. They were asked to ensure that local residents are consulted about the proposed changes and provided with information as the scheme progresses.
Cllr John Waters, Cabinet member for Regeneration and Housing, says: "We have listened carefully to the many concerns of local people in North Cray about the scheme.
"We are determined that the new housing development will meet the needs of the people of Bexley, and provide homes that people will be proud to occupy in the years to come.
"This means changing the scheme to provide for more residents to be able to own their homes as well as to rent them."
He said that since the original design had been approved, the Government had introduced new products to enable councils and housing associations to offer opportunities to first time buyers unable to afford homes in London and the south east of England. It had also emphasised the importance of building new estates that were able to meet the needs of all residents.
The scheme, which is being developed in partnership with the Housing Corporation and London and Quadrant Housing Association, is for the building of 103 new homes. A neighbourhood centre to house a variety of community activities, meeting rooms and a police team is also part of the project.
