New homes are under construction due to a housing shortage, however delays and costs are a concern.
The council wants to build new affordable homes to help meet the growing need. The first homes will be at four sites, with ninety-three homes in this initial phase. These are the first new homes in 40 years, and work will begin at Farm Road Church located in Morden.
Homes will be built at other locations, including car parks and land. The homes will be energy-efficient, and this design lowers living costs for residents. Demolition has already started at Farm Road Church, clearing the site for building soon. The demolition company will work safely to reduce dust and traffic and protect the environment.
A survey found no bats living there, so demolition happens when bats are less active. This protects local wildlife in the area, and London’s Mayor supports this project financially. A council member, Andrew Judge, spoke about the need, stating that over 10,500 people need housing, and building more homes is crucial now.
He praised the target of 1.5 million new homes, saying councils must lead the way and they can build better homes. However, The Lib Dem party criticized the project’s delays and claim the council overspent money. With no homes built yet in two years, they say there is no clear plan.
The new homes’ cost is also a concern, with each now costing £611,505, driving the total budget to £57 million. These homes won’t be for temporary housing.
The Lib Dems suggested building about 100 modular homes, costing about £27,000 each, this lowers the costs of temporary housing.
Council Leader Ross Garrod sees progress as demolition is a milestone. He wants decent homes for residents and says he is committed to housing residents properly.