Specialist build-to-rent developer Placefirst is set to start work on a £5m scheme that will transform long-term empty properties in the historic West End of Morecambe.
West End Two will be a collection of townhouses, duplexes and apartments created through the refurbishment and remodeling of 23 former guesthouses. The scheme follows on from West End One which on 21 September 2017 won Best Conversion/Refurbishment at The Sunday Times British Homes Awards.
West End Two will offer 51 new homes from two-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom townhouses. The development will preserve the rich heritage features of the Victorian properties, whilst transforming the interiors through comprehensive remodeling of internal spaces that offer a truly modern living experience.
The unusual option of styling your own home is being offered to residents, who can choose their own colour schemes, kitchen and flooring if they reserve a property prior to the works being completed.
The development is set to start work on site in October and Placefirst anticipate the first homes will be ready to welcome new residents from Summer 2018. The refurbishment works will be carries out by Placefirst Construction, the company’s in-house contracting company.
David Smith-Milne, managing director of Placefirst, said: “West End One has demonstrated the need for high quality, professionally managed rental properties in Morecambe. The development is fully let and we continue to receive enquiries for the homes. West End Two will build on that success, offering the same high standards of accommodation within the historic envelope of grand Victorian properties.”
“Our team works hard to ensure Placefirst residents have a great home, backed up by a direct landlord service. We design, build and maintain all our developments and provide a level of service to our residents that makes them feel secure, respected and valued.”
Placefirst is committed to preserving the local West End heritage and building a sense of community by providing top quality properties to rent.
“We absolutely love our home. It’s very modern, the features are brilliant and its energy efficient. The whole area is looking really attractive and I think everyone has settled in well. I think it’s beneficial to have the same landlord; we have never had any problems with the service, and if anything needs to be sorted out it’s handled straight away. We get on really well with the guys on site and they go the extra mile to help.” – West End One resident
West End Two includes Kenilcoate, a large house on Chatsworth Road built in 1891 and designed by William Woodhouse (1857-1939), a Morecambe artist nationally renowned for his landscape and animal paintings. Kenilcoate will be restored into a large 5-bedroom house.
Councilor Janice Hanson, Lancaster City Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration and planning, said: “The regeneration of Morecambe’s West End is a priority for the council and we were delighted to be able to secure a development partner of the quality of Placefirst to deliver this important scheme.
“West End One has already made a huge difference in both changing the perception of the area and its attractiveness to families as a great place to live. We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership with Placefirst on West End Two and build on this success.”
West End Two will offer 51 new homes including two, three, four and five-bedroom homes for rent at competitive prices that reflect the standard, quality and level of the refurbishment. The site is bounded by Chatsworth Road, Albert Road, Balmoral Road and Regent Road.
Anyone interested in the new homes at West End Two can register interest by calling Placefirst’s resident service team on 0300 555 5564.