The second phase of an extensive programme of work to regenerate the Beech Hill area of Halifax is being discussed by Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 2 August 2021.

Members will discuss proposals and funding arrangements to carry out improvement work on 70 existing properties in the Beech Hill area. This second phase of work will complement ongoing work on phase one of the project – the building of over 100 new affordable homes on neighbouring land, formerly occupied by three tower blocks.

The 70 properties that make up the remainder of the site were built in the 1970s and suffer from a number of issues, including failing flat roofs and limited insulation. A range of improvement options have been considered and a programme of refurbishment work has been developed in consultation with existing residents in the close and settled community.

The preferred option is to carry out a fully funded programme of refurbishment to all the properties, bringing significant improvements to the energy-efficiency or the homes and improving the look of the whole area.

The recommended works for the 70 homes in the Phase 2 area includes:

• Replacement of existing flat roofs with new insulated pitched roof; including guttering, fall pipes and drainage
• New doors and windows
• Insulation panels to sections of wall between ground and first floor windows to match the new doors and windows
• Improvements to the public realm surrounding the properties to enhance the appearance of the area

The total cost of the scheme is estimated at £2.37million, with £1.2million being made available following a successful bid to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy’s Getting Building Fund. The remaining investment is being provided by the Council and Together Housing, along with contributions from private landlords towards the cost of the works for their properties.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet are being asked to approve the necessary funding and the appointment of the contractor ENGIE, to carry out the works, following a competitive tender exercise.

Phase 2 of the Beech Hill regeneration scheme will be discussed at the meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 2 August 2021 from 6pm.