Newham families get new homes for the new year

Ten local families are off to a fresh start in time for the new year, thanks to East Thames transformation of seven empty run down properties into 10 new family sized homes in Newham.

East Thames has worked hard to transform the previously empty and dilapidated properties into quality family homes available for intermediate and social rent.

This is at a time where it’s estimated across the UK there are at least 1 million empty homes that could be used by 2 million families living in a home that doesn’t meet their needs.

Following Newham’s efforts to take possession of the properties through compulsory purchase orders, East Thames were one of a number of housing associations Newham selected to help ensure these homes were refurbished and put to good use by accommodating local people.

Resident Mr Udeonu (pictured) said: “The transformation of these sites has completely transformed my life, I really lost hope in finding a home to suit as Newham is the place I wanted to live so I never gave up. When I heard the good news it felt like a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. I look forward to the future and spending the new year with my family in our new home – It really is a fresh new start for us.”

East Thames project manager Caroline Toogood said: “It’s great to see the impact this project has had on local families, it’s definitely creating much needed housing stock by making the best use of resources and improving the local neighbourhood.”