The Avenues phase of the Riverwell project, featuring over 1,000 homes, has reached a milestone with its tallest block topping out.
This block has four stories and contains twelve affordable homes. The whole Avenues scheme includes 62 private homes and 23 affordable units. Twenty of these are for social rent. Avenues is part of the bigger Riverwell scheme. That scheme will have over 1,000 homes.
People from various groups attended a ceremony, including representatives from Kier Property, the Council, and Watford Housing. Kier Construction also joined. The event was near Vicarage Road Stadium, close to the hospital’s parking garage.
Watford’s mayor, Peter Taylor, commented on the homes, expressing his gladness that the project makes affordable homes available. He specifically highlighted the twenty homes designated for social rent, noting that these used to be called council houses.
He further added that the homes are sustainable and very energy efficient leading to lower residents’ bills. He stated that this is good for the environment.
Watford Riverwell keeps growing, and the project still focuses on housing, local jobs, and better spaces. A connected community is a central goal, benefiting both residents and businesses.
Avenues Phase 2 is being planned now, along with a new public square. The aim is to create more homes and community spaces. They’re also working to improve connections within the area.
Kier Property’s director, Leigh Thomas, commented that this milestone is important as it helps build a thriving community. He added that they partner with the council to deliver homes and public spaces.
Notably, the number of affordable homes changed; Avenues Phase 1 originally had 62, which was cut to 23 last year. High costs made the original plan unworkable, with inflation and other factors playing a significant role.