The biggest construction project in the 70-year history of Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) has been shortlisted for Best Housing Development in the Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Awards 2023.
An aerial view of Cherry Tree House (left) and Hillside
The award “recognises developments that provide desirable and sustainable places to live, improving people's lives within the community.”
The £14 million scheme at Queenshill Avenue in Moortown comprises 85 new properties including 51 sheltered housing apartments for those aged 55 and over, and 34 general needs apartments.
Kate Henderson, National Housing Federation Chief Executive (left), Cllr Robert W Gettings, Lord Mayor of Leeds (centre); and Cllr Lesley Gettings, Lady Mayoress (second from right) with LJHA residents in Cherry Tree House
It was officially opened last summer by Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, and Cllr Robert W Gettings, Lord Mayor of Leeds.
The sheltered apartments are physically connected to 130 existing properties in three other buildings to form a sheltered village of 181 apartments for older people with secure access to the Ziff Community Centre which provides a range of culturally sensitive services, activities and food.
Craig Simons, LJHA Director of Operations, said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this award.
Craig Simons, Director of Operations at LJHA
“The new development was many years in the planning, not helped by the onset of the pandemic in March 2020 just as construction was getting underway. However, LJHA and the Leeds Jewish community are nothing if not resilient and, working closely with Equans, we were determined to see the project through to the end with minimal delays.
“Acanthus accompanied LJHA staff on road trips to other new build housing schemes to help reach final decisions on exactly what was required aesthetically and how it would work, especially in relation to older persons’ provision.
“Hiedi Lazenby was engaged with the task of delivering buildings with internal qualities every bit as impressive as the magnificent exteriors.
“Tenant groups also helped with a range of choices including fixtures and fittings, bathrooms and kitchens.
“The final result was 85 extremely impressive new homes in heart of the community, low rent, modern, energy efficient, warm and secure.
“LJHA is proud of what has been achieved and delighted that this has been recognised by the Chartered Institute of Housing.”