Innovative Cramlington project picks up prestigious housing award

A project to transform “Dorran” style properties on an estate in Cramlington has picked up two awards at a regional awards ceremony.

Northumberland County Council won the Large Project of the Year (Over £250k) and was highly commended in the Landlord of the Year category at the Energy Efficiency and Healthy Homes Awards for the project at Allerhope.

The project has transformed the “Dorran” style properties into more energy efficient properties. Dorran properties were a popular post-war style of construction, using concrete panels, and often have issues with insulation.

The council has been working with external wall specialists, Alumasc Facades, ArtBrick Limited and Westdale Services Ltd. A steel structure was added to the concrete panels to strengthen the external wall and ensure it could withstand the weight of new insulation and render. It was then finished with a unique “brick” effect render to modernise the property. All the windows in the properties have also been replaced.

Phase one of the project, which included 43 homes, has just been completed and the council is now tendering for the second phase which would include a further 43 homes.

Coun John Riddle, Cabinet member for Planning, Housing and Resilience at the council, said: “This is fantastic recognition for an innovative scheme, intended to not only improve the energy efficiency of these properties, but also the appearance.

“Tenants are very happy with the work and are already noticing the benefits with their property feeling warmer and better insulated.”

Ward councillor for the area, Mark Swinburn, said: “This project has been a great success and it has had a really positive impact on the community.”

Andrew Jude, North East Manager, Westdale North ltd, said: “The council has done a fantastic job in transforming these dated dorran properties into  modern looking, energy efficient home.

“They have gone that extra mile by putting their tenants first: helping with energy efficiency, saving on utility bills but also dramatically improving the appearance of the properties.”

Tenant Ruby Elliott, who has lived on the estate for more than 40 years, said: “This work has made a massive difference. The houses look much more modern.

“We used to have real problems with drafts, but now they are so much warmer and I have already seen a positive impact on my energy bills.”

Pictured above: John Riddle and Laura Burkin, Construction Project Officer.

Pictured on cover page: Tenant Ruby Elliott, Laura Burkin, Andrew Jude of Westdale Services Ltd and tenant Steph Brown.