New £1.6m apartment complex set to revive Darlington

An out-dated Darlington hostel is to be replaced with a £1.6m complex of 26 new apartments in a scheme to revive the area.

The demolition of Tom Rain Lifehouse, a hostel in Darlington, has now been completed and work is underway on the foundations of the new apartments.

The new development, built by Esh Property Services for the Salvation Army Housing Association, will consist of 26 attractive apartments, some with private gardens or balconies.

22 will be single and four for double occupancy and each apartment will have kitchen, bathroom, dining-living room and bedroom.

Work has already begun on laying the foundations which will be completed towards the end of July, the superstructure will then be erected which will provide the framework for the building which will constructed to Code for Sustainable Homes level 3.

John Macfarlane, Head of Capital Projects of the Salvation Army Housing Association explained: “This is an exciting development which will provide much needed affordable housing for rent in Darlington town centre where excellent facilities are within easy reach.

“We plan to offer the apartments for rent on a choice-based letting scheme whereby potential tenants will be able to set out their eligibility as part of the application process.

“In total Coburg Street will provide affordable accommodation for 30 people.

“We are delighted to be working with Esh Property Services which is highly experienced in developing this type of scheme and we are very much looking forward to welcoming new tenants in summer 2014.”

As part of the contract Esh Property Services will deliver a work experience and apprenticeship programme through its Esh Employability team.

The programme will be available to people living in the existing apartments adjacent to the site.

Graham Morgan, Operations Director, Esh Property Services said: “This is a great scheme for Darlington - we believe it will give a great boost to the area as these are brand new apartments on a site which has been disused for a long time.

“We’re delighted to be working for the Salvation Army Housing Association to deliver these much needed homes and we are looking forward to working with local people and to supporting some through providing them with training, development and work experience in order to help them seek work.”