Public Benefits

There are a number of benefits from the project.

• The opportunity to replace the seven, affordable homes which have become uninhabitable due to the deterioration of the Primes Close bungalows over time.
• Increase in the number of affordable homes for those of any age including families with children. This benefit and the whole project is supported by UDC Housing.
• Flats which use fully renewable energy, contributing to society’s climate change targets.
• Reduction in flood risk to the town by replacing the section of the culvert under the Primes Close bungalows and nearby roadway.
• Reduction in ongoing maintenance cost and burden of the culvert to the almshouses reducing the likelihood of funding delays and further reducing flood risk to the town.
• The retention of the unique offer and legacy of the almshouses for the town, reflecting evolution since 1400 and ensuring there is an offer for future generations.
• Retention and expansion of affordable homes in a location with flat access to the town centre, which is very important to elderly residents.
• Renovation and enhancement to the landscaping along the Park Lane frontage, improving the gateway to the town for visitors using the Swan Meadow car park.