Cash boost for homes scheme in historic hall

Social landlord Incommunities has secured Government funding to transform historic Menston Hall, near Bradford, into affordable homes.

Cash totalling 770,000 from the Homes and Communities Agency's Kickstart programme will go towards the conversion of the existing main hall and the construction of two adjacent blocks. Preparatory work is starting on site by the end of this month.

The development will consist of 30 two-bedroomed flats of which 17 will be available for shared ownership and five more for rent. The construction partners, Strategic Team Group, will market a further eight units for sale.

Bradford Council planners approved the development plans in February, which will include the demolition of the hall's 1960s-built extension.

Critics of the plans argued it constituted overdevelopment, was out of character with the area and did not provide enough parking.

Menston Hall was last used to provide sheltered accommodation for older people but has been empty for more than a year.

Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group chief executive, said: "The development will offer a choice of tenure to meet the needs of residents wanting to get on to the property ladder and older people looking to move into an attractive village property.

"The support of the Homes and Communities Agency and Bradford Council has been key to unlocking this latest affordable homes opportunity for Incommunities."

Martin Smith, Incommunities Group chairman, said: "The conversion of Menston Hall continues our significant investment in the Wharfedale area to provide much needed affordable accommodation."

Naz Parkar, head of area for the Homes and Communities Agency, said: "We are delighted to support this scheme that will bring a historic building back into use by providing local people with homes that they can not only afford but also want to live in."