Avenham tower blocks to be demolished and replaced with new homes

Three tower blocks in Queen Street in Avenham are set to be demolished and replaced with new homes.

The future of the blocks, built in the 1960s, was recently assessed by owners Onward Homes against a range of factors including building quality, design and local housing needs.

Residents were consulted earlier in the year on Onward’s preferred option to demolish the tower blocks and the alternative option of refurbishing and re-cladding the existing tower blocks.

The decision is part of plans to regenerate and renew the area and provide modern, quality homes within walking distance of the city centre.

The demolition process will start with Richmond House before moving on to Carlisle and Lincoln Houses.

Sandy Livingstone, Executive Director for Property at Onward, said: “Onward has an ambitious vision, working with our partners in Preston City Council and Homes England, to deliver a transformative renewal of the Queen Street Estate that delivers quality affordable homes within walking distance of the centre of one of the great northern cities.

“The tower blocks require significant investment to ensure the properties reflect modern housing requirements and the needs of customers in the future. Whilst refurbishment would improve the buildings in the short-term, the tower blocks would still not provide the same standards as a new build home.

“Demolition is a more suitable long-term solution that will provide new, improved homes that are a better reflection of local housing needs.

“We understand that residents will have lots of questions about next steps and we are here to help them through every step of the rehousing process. Our dedicated teams will speak to each household on an individual basis to understand their needs and help them to find a new home.”

Further information is available on the Onward website, or residents can get in touch by emailing preston@onward.co.uk or calling 0300 555 0600.

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