Together with the first development at Erith Park, both schemes have transformed estates previously dominated by ageing, poor-quality tower blocks into new, vibrant and attractive mixed-tenure communities. Both schemes were supported by grants from the Greater London Authority (GLA) totalling £41mn.
The £120mn Park East scheme consists of 320 apartments available as affordable home ownership through London Affordable Rent (general needs), London Living Rent (rent to buy) and market sale. All the homes have a large balcony or terrace and the use of attractive communal gardens. For families, there are the Active Horizons community centre’s added attractions, the Jacqueline Gems Childcare nursery and the play and ecology areas in nearby Erith Park.
Paul Richards, Group Director of Customers and Communities for Orbit, commented: “Over the last 12 years, we have totally transformed two unpopular and ageing estates into attractive new neighbourhoods. Park East and Erith Park are now safe and inclusive communities providing high-quality, energy-efficient homes. Delivering these schemes successfully has been an extraordinary challenge, made possible by our seamless partnership with Wates and our shared vision with the London Borough of Bexley to create a place people are proud to call home.”
Helen Bunch, Executive Managing Director, Wates Residential, states: “Here in Erith, alongside Orbit, we have laid the groundwork for a vibrant new community by developing warm, modern and spacious homes in a setting that people can thrive in. We believe everyone deserves a great place to live, and I hope all the residents here are proud to call Park East home.”
Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE, Leader of the London Borough of Bexley, added: “This is a great example of the kind of good growth we want to see in the borough. Not only has it provided attractive new homes in an area that was in need of regeneration but also some great new outdoor space for residents to enjoy.”
