Novus is hot property in Staffordshire

Public Sector Wed, Mar 23, 2016 9:56 AM

Construction contractor Novus Property Solutions has completed work on three brand new two-bedroom homes near Newcastle-under-Lyme, as part of a £300,000 project for Aspire Housing Ltd.

The property specialist, which has its headquarters in Stoke, was contracted to construct the three terrace homes on Albert Street in Bignall End in a 26-week period.

The work was multi-trade, with Novus completing every aspect of the project, from laying foundations to constructing the homes then completing electrical, plumbing and roofing work along with plastering, kitchen and bathroom installations and painting and decorating.

The homes were completed in the agreed timescale and to the highest standard, with two being rented to the social landlord’s residents and one being offered for sale under a shared ownership arrangement.

Novus followed the Code for Sustainable Homes throughout construction, implementing robust waste management strategies and installing low energy lighting, insulation and other energy efficient products to ensure sustainability.

Each home adhered to the Secured by Design initiative, while they were also designed so they are easily adapted for people with disabilities. Light fittings are all at a lower height, ramps have been installed and stairlifts can be fitted with ease if necessary.

Novus had a small space to complete the work within, which proved challenging, however the team overcame this by implementing efficient building methods and robust logistical strategies which included constructing the homes in a specific sequence.

Ged Carr, contracts manager at Novus, said: “Throughout the project, we adhered to the Considerate Constructors Scheme, ensuring that residents in the local area were kept informed at every stage of the project. We overcame the challenge of working in a tight footprint to deliver high quality housing for the social landlord which will last for years to come.”

Dan Gray, head of asset management and development at the Aspire Group, said: “Novus have worked effectively in partnership with the Aspire Group to achieve a high quality affordable housing product on a challenging small site working around existing homes. These new homes will provide welcome affordable housing for rent and to buy in a rural part of Newcastle-under-Lyme, helping to meet local need.”