whg has begun its most significant, concentrated investment in
homes with a green makeover that promises to benefit customers, the
environment and skyline.
More than £3million is being spent on landmark Humphries
House and neighbouring Severn House, Brownhills, both of which are
owned and managed by leading landlord whg.
The pioneering Midlands' housing provider has strengthened its
partnership with Aldridge-based Wates Construction and British Gas
to give the 1960s blocks a massive overhaul.
whg is introducing the very latest in heating technology to the
blocks by fitting highly energy-efficient biomass boilers that burn
wood pellets, a clean and natural fuel.
Residents will be able to individually change the temperature
within their own flat using a wall-mounted unit that can be
controlled like a central heating boiler. The system will also
provide instant hot water.
Group Chief Executive Gary Fulford said: "Work to Humphries and
Severn Houses is not only significant in terms of investment but
exciting as we are introducing cutting-edge green technology. whg
is at the fore of the retrofit revolution and we will continue to
innovate for the benefit of our customers and the environment.
"We aim to create homes where our customers are happy and proud
to live and this is a good example of turning theory into
practice," added Gary.
Scaffolding is being put up around the blocks as the dated
pebble dash exterior will be replaced with rendered insulation in a
colour chosen by customers. As part of the extensive project, new
roofs will be fitted, double glazed windows installed and the
communal areas redecorated. Work will be completed next spring and
follows a recent bathroom and kitchen upgrade to the flats.
The combination of better insulation and the new heating system
will lower the carbon footprint of Humphries and Severn Houses, off
High Street, and ensure energy bills for residents are less than
with standard heating systems. In addition the overall effect of
the makeover will improve Brownhills' skyline.
whg is a pioneer of the retrofit, designed to improve the energy
efficiency of a property, and has an impressive range of projects
either completed, ongoing or on the horizon.
Working with energy giant British Gas, whg delivered the
country's first Community Energy Savings Programme. The work to
modernise homes in Blakenall, Walsall, in 2009/10 with a range of
energy efficient measures attracted a visit from Joan Ruddock MP,
then Minister of State at the Department of Energy and Climate
Change, and helped whg secure the gas industry's energy champion
award this year.