Thanks to the Decent Homes scheme, an old block of flats on Raven's Way, SE12, has been brought up to standard and is now being let to tenants.
The block was built in 1912 as a residential club for a local company. It was converted into flats in the early 1950s, but by 2002 the condition of the properties had deteriorated to the point where extensive investment would be needed if the flats were to achieve the Decent Homes Standard.
At the beginning of 2005, partnership contractors RR Richardsons started on a £2.9million programme to completely refurbishment the block, both inside and out.
Four new, two bedroomed, flats were also built on top of the old block. These are intended for letting to key workers.
How were they improved?
As part of the refurbishment:
- The block was gutted with all the old fittings, floors and some partitions removed and replaced.
- A new roof was provided, levels of insulation were increased and a combined heat and power plant was installed to provide heating and hot water.
- The original external fire escapes were removed and the external brickwork was cleaned to restore it to its original condition.
- Each flat was been completely refurbished to a very high standard with a new kitchen and bathroom.
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November 2006