How an affordable housing scheme is creating a new community in Barnsley

Leeds & Yorkshire Housing Association (LYHA) has officially opened the new Catherine’s Walk affordable housing development in South Athersley, Barnsley,

Work began on the £5.95 million, 54 home-scheme in August 2018.

The new two- and three-bedroom homes comprise 40 houses, eight apartments and six bungalows.

A spokesman said: “This is the largest new build scheme that LYHA has undertaken for many years and the housing association has engaged with the local community throughout, including holding a competition for local primary school children to create the names for the new streets. The winners were Ruby Kenny and Olivia Robinson, both from Laithes Primary School, who came up with the names ‘Tawny Street’ and ‘Blossom View’.

Joanna Chambers, Director of Assets and Growth at LYHA, comments: “I am delighted to see these new homes ready to move into; it has been fascinating watching them take shape. I can’t wait to see the new residents get their keys and hope they will be very happy in their new homes.

“We have taken great care with the design and materials and the completed scheme looks fantastic. Not only are the homes desirable, but with high standards of energy efficiency, they should also be cheap to run, a key consideration for us in the building of new homes.

“We have been lucky to work with brilliant and supportive local partners throughout, including our building contractor, Engie; Acanthus WSM architects; managing agents, DBA; and Homes England who part funded the development through a £2 million grant.”

Nathan Brough, Regional Director at energy and regeneration specialist ENGIE, said: “We’re thrilled to have played such a vital role in this partnership, which has helped to fulfil the need for new affordable housing in the area.

“The homes are designed to suit families of all ages and incorporate energy efficiency measures.”