Bracknell

Enid Wood House could become one of the many areas of Bracknell town centre to be improved and redeveloped over the next few years as the regeneration starts to take place.

On Tuesday, Bracknell Forest Borough Council's Executive will consider a proposal that would mean that the flats could be redeveloped into attractive, modern apartments.

Enid Wood House is a block of 128 bed-sits in the Bracknell town centre. The flats are in a poor condition and the proposal has been put together by the Council, which leases the flats for let as Council housing and Golfrate the property company who owns the block.

To upgrade the flats would cost more than the Council can afford, as a consequence the Council is negotiating with Golfrate to end the lease and allow the property company to find the investment necessary for redevelopment.

Golfrate would have to apply for planning permission before any redevelopment could go ahead.

Stuart Mudie, Assistant Director Sustainable Communities, said: "We have been considering the long-term future of Enid Wood House for some time. We were concerned the bedsits do not meet the standard of accommodation our tenants need and there is no realistic prospect of us being able to find the money to refurbish the flats.

There are currently 45 Bracknell tenants living in Enid Wood House who have all been sent a letter explaining how they will be re-housed over the next two years. Each tenant will also receive a home visit from a housing officer, so an up-to-date assessment of their needs can be made.

"While most residents are already keen to move, we know that moving home can be a difficult and stressful experience and advice and assistance to help with the move to their new homes will be available.

"This proposal means the uncertainty surrounding the building would come to an end and tenants will be able to enjoy better standards of accommodation elsewhere in Bracknell Forest."

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member with responsibility for Bracknell Council's property portfolio, said: "Ending the lease means a positive outcome for all; tenants will be able to enjoy a better standard of housing and the town centre will have an improved residential area which will be fit for its setting in a newly regenerated town centre."

The Council's housing officers will be visiting all residents to discuss any queries they have and give them them more information about the move. Any tenants who have questions or concerns should contact: Tracey May on 01344 351395 or Amanda Roden on 01344 351197.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council