Construction has commenced on a new £7 million housing development in Wandsworth, providing an additional 21 new homes in the area.

The Stag House site on the Putney Vale Estate is home to the vacant Stag House Community Youth Centre. It will redeveloped to provide 10 self-contained homes for those with physical and learning disabilities, including accommodation for an on-site support officer.

The other 11 homes in the area will be available for social rent.

Wates Residential is delivering the project, after winning a competitive tender project from Wandsworth Council.

The contractor held a ground-breaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction.

Speaking at the event, Leader of the Council Ravi Govindia said: "This is a demonstration of our commitment to build new homes which meet the diverse needs of our residents. Good quality housing is fundamental in supporting the wellbeing of our residents and we're delighted to be partnering with Wates Residential on this scheme. I am also proud that this scheme is the first Council build supported housing scheme for our more vulnerable residents which will give those with learning and physical disabilities the opportunity to live safely in a scheme built to the highest standards.


"May I also thank the local residents' association, chaired by Shirley Price, and Cllr Jane Cooper for identifying this and another development opportunity on the estate and for their positive contributions and understanding as this development has been taken forward."

Paul Nicholls, Managing Director of Wates Residential, added: "It is great to see local authorities like Wandsworth building again on brownfield sites and to be a part of this. Today's ground breaking event marks an exciting milestone in our delivery of these new homes for Wandsworth residents. It follows months of collaboration with the Council, members of the community and other local stakeholders to really understand their vision for the area and how we can realise this, both through the design and construction of these homes and by looking at ways that we can create wider local economic and social value.

"We look forward to strengthening these relationships as we continue to progress on site and to creating a positive lasting legacy for the community long after we have handed over this site."

The Stag House scheme is due for completion in Spring 2020.

(CM/JG)