Sanctuary delivers 122 new affordable homes in Wickford

We were pleased to welcome Rayleigh and Wickford MP Mark Francois to celebrate the completion of our new development of 122 affordable homes in Wickford, Essex.

The £18.6 million Gateway House development has transformed previously disused land on Runwell Road into a range of high-quality one and two-bedroom flats for affordable rent and shared ownership.

The new homes have been built by our construction partner, Horizon Construction Group, while the project has been supported by funding from Homes England.

The new properties have been built with sustainability in mind, with air source heat pumps fitted throughout.

Mr Francois joined our Group Chief Executive, Craig Moule, to tour the site and meet with some of its new residents, including Robbie, who has purchased a shared ownership home at the development.

Commenting on the successful opening of the development, Mr Francois said: “We know young people are struggling to get onto the housing ladder in the current market, so it was a pleasure to help open Sanctuary’s new Gateway House development, in Wickford.

“Just over half of the new, high-spec apartments will be reserved for affordable rent, exclusively for local people from Basildon Council’s waiting list - while the remainder will be shared ownership apartments, specifically intended to help young people like Robbie get onto the housing ladder.

“I’d like to thank Sanctuary’s CEO, Craig Moule, and his team for helping my constituents, particularly those seeking their first home, find somewhere nice to live.”

Craig Moule added: “We’re proud to have transformed this prominent site near the heart of Wickford into high-quality, affordable homes that will make a real difference to local people’s lives.

“Developments like this are about more than bricks and mortar, they are about helping people put down roots, feel secure and become part of a thriving community.

“We are committed to investing in places and working closely with local partners to deliver homes that communities can be proud of. It was a pleasure to show Mr Francois around the completed scheme and hear such positive feedback from customers who are already enjoying their new homes.”