Co-operation results in much needed new housing

Working with local contractors and Colchester Borough Council the East of England Co-op has developed seven new homes on Dairy Close, just off Wimpole Road in Colchester.

The three bedroom properties, currently available to rent through the East of England Co-op’s property department, were designed by local architect Stanley Bragg, with Tiptree based contractors TJ Evers bringing the drawings to life and Colchester based practice Dudley Smith Partnership managing the project. 

Nick Denny, Joint Chief Executive for the East of England Co-op, said: “As a local business we’re proud to be investing over £1million in the area. 

“Working with local contractors and consultants we’re helping to protect and create new jobs, giving them the confidence to grow and invest in their business, whilst also providing new services and much needed housing for the local community. The houses will be retained in our investment portfolio and are available to rent.”

The houses are the final part of the development which is also home to the East of England Co-op food store, with six spacious apartments above which are let to local people, and a Chapel of Rest. In recognition of its former use, local Councillors chose to call the new road in which the houses are situated ‘Dairy Close’.

Councillor Annie Feltham, Portfolio Holder for Commercial Services, said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to look round one of the completed houses, which looks like a really attractive family home.

“Dairy Close is a good local scheme, delivered in partnership, which is helping to build stronger communities and provide much-needed homes for rent in the Borough.”

For further information about the East of England Co-op Property Division, and to see both residential and commercial properties available to rent, visit www.eastofengland.coop/property