On Thursday 6 August, Councillor Simon Dear for Waverley Borough and Haslemere Town, visited a new development at Wey Hill in Haslemere, Surrey being brought forward by Abri Group, one of the south’s largest housing providers with Drew Smith undertaking the construction.
Councillor Dear joined Abri Group and Drew Smith to celebrate work beginning on the new 45 apartments, which will be available for affordable rent.
Fergus Cruikshank, Head of Land and Planning at Abri Group said: “It was a pleasure to meet with Councillor Dear to talk about how work is progressing and see how this site that has been derelict for approximately 13 years is being transformed. We are delighted to be back building communities and these will be quality homes that help to enhance the area where affordable housing has been in short supply.”
Cllr Simon Dear commented: “Work starting on site so quickly and safely after restrictions due to Covid-19 is a great statement of positive action being undertaken in the town. Our ‘Heart Of Haslemere – Back in Business’ programme has been launched to boost returning businesses and the new homes are another example of businesses being able to safely restart and bring vitality back to our communities.
“The fact that all the new apartments will be for affordable rental is fantastic news. So many developments in Haslemere don’t provide affordable homes, so many younger people and key workers in the town should be able to benefit from the project by Abri Group.”
Leanne Smith, New Business Director at Drew Smith said: “Drew Smith remain committed to supporting our clients and stakeholders to maintain business continuity during these challenging times. Our priority remains the safety, health and wellbeing of our employees, customers and suppliers. We are proud to be Keeping Britain Building alongside our trusted Housing Partner Abri Group; this work is critical for our industry and the UK economy as a whole.”
In addition to the 45 apartments the development will include a private basement car park, electric charging points and green amenity space. The development is estimated to be completed by summer 2022.