Work has begun on an innovative housing scheme that will provide much-needed temporary accommodation for local families facing homelessness in Tonbridge and Malling.

The development of 12 permanent self-contained modular homes, on the site of the former commuter car park site at Blue Bell Hill, is the first of its kind in the borough and will support people in need of temporary housing – a sector where demand continues to increase.

The project received unanimous planning approval from councillors earlier this year and marks a significant step in the council’s efforts to address a growing need for short-term accommodation across the borough.

There are currently between 90 and 100 households on the list for temporary accommodation in Tonbridge and Malling. Providing temporary accommodation costs the council around £2.2 million a year.

While the council currently owns or leases around 30 properties across Tonbridge and Malling, providing suitable accommodation in the north of the borough has previously proved challenging.  The development at Blue Bell Hill will go some way to alleviating that.

Designed with a lifespan of over 100 years the units will provide modern, high-quality, energy-efficient accommodation for families in need. The homes will feature high-performance insulation and low-carbon technologies, including solar photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps, helping to reduce energy consumption and lower running costs for residents.

Cllr Robin Betts, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Environment and Economy said: “It’s great to be here today to mark the construction of these EPC A rated energy efficient homes. Everyone has a right to a decent place to live, and we are proud to be able to deliver this innovative modular housing project to support local families from Tonbridge and Malling. We look forward to seeing the development take shape in the coming months.”

Site preparation by the Award-winning modular homes specialist, Zed Pods Limited is now underway. The units will be precision-built off-site before being assembled at Blue Bell Hill in September.

This modular construction approach enables faster delivery and minimises disruption to the local community when compared with traditional building methods.

Chairman of Zed Pods Ltd, Tom Northway said: “We are delighted to be working collaboratively with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council on this important modular housing project, which shows how offsite construction can help deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes”

An office will also be provided at the location, allowing council housing staff to manage the properties and offer support directly to residents.

Construction should be completed with residents ready to move into the new units by Spring next year.

Source: www.tmbc.gov.uk