Coventry residents are set to benefit from a further £2.3m revamp of the city's only Jackblock tower thanks to Whitefriars Housing Group.

The refurbishment of Alpha House, which started earlier this week, is due to take nine months to complete. Planned in consultation with residents, the work will include fitting new aluminium cladding and double-glazed windows. As a result, residents will benefit from better insulation and the block will present a far more pleasing, modern look to Coventry's skyline. 

It is the first time the association has used this method of refurbishment. The scheme will complete the total upgrade to the block in Barras Heath. Other improvements already delivered include installing new kitchens and bathrooms and decorating communal stairways and corridors. 

Residents have also been consulted on further work to improve the security of the block with several options for residents to choose from. 

The 17-floor block, built in 1962, was one of the first Jackblock towers to be constructed. This method saw the building take place at ground level and then each floor jacked up as it was completed. 

Whitefriars has an ongoing programme to improve its stock and this scheme is part of a £14.9m programme being delivered this year.  

Richard Osborne, Whitefriars' director of property services, said: "We've been in touch with residents to ensure they are fully informed of what is happening, and we invited everyone to an open evening earlier this month to discuss the work. 

"We've even taken a group of residents over to Wolverhampton to view a block which has already used this method so they could see the final result in reality. The feedback has been positive so we've put the wheels in motion and are excited about seeing the project come to life. 

"Whitefriars is committed to improving people's lives and often this is about making physical changes that have real impact. This is just one example of how we are achieving this."