Plots: 67

Value: £10M

Status: Completed

Thakeham was thrilled to be appointed as the main contractor on this project for Wealden District Council. The £10m development in Oaklea Way near Uckfield town centre features 65 apartments and two cottages for social rent. It was delivered on time and opened in Spring 2019.

During the design development of the project, consultation with the Planning Officer, Housing Officers, the Thomas Scanlon Trust, Uckfield Bowling Club and Local Councillors informed the emerging design proposals.

Grants Hill House was originally a Local Authority-owned housing scheme, which was no longer fit for purpose and therefore proposed for redevelopment. The Planning Application was submitted in November 2015 and received unanimous approval in March 2016, with committee members praising the new design as ‘the jewel in the crown for Uckfield’. Grants Hill Court was completed in June 2019 and is now fully occupied.

The project followed Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation (HAPPI) Design principles. The HAPPI principles are based on 10 key design criteria including good light, ventilation, room to move around and good storage. They also consider housing that offers an attractive alternative to the family home, and the ability to adapt over time to meet changing needs.