Milton Keynes City Council has been shortlisted for two national housing awards in recognition of its work building new council homes and making wider improvements at The Lakes Estate in Bletchley.
The city council has been named as a finalist in the Inside Housing Awards for Best Local Authority Development Team and Best Large Regeneration Project.
In the last year, local families have moved into almost 200 new modern and energy-efficient homes in Bletchley. The wider improvement and regeneration work also included new roads and updated green spaces, community courtyards and four new children's play parks. Funding has also been agreed for a new health hub, which is due to open in early 2027.
Around a decade ago, many of the homes at Serpentine Court on the estate were ageing and becoming increasingly expensive to repair. Following extensive engagement with residents, a community ballot in 2018 saw 93% of participating residents support the demolition of Serpentine Court and the full redevelopment of the estate.
The recognition comes as the city council continues to expand its programme of affordable housing. Milton Keynes has also been announced as the 15th largest council house builder in the country, with more homes planned in the years ahead. Earlier this week, the city council set out plans that could deliver up to 600 additional council homes with support from the Government's £39 billion, 10-year Social and Affordable Homes Programme.
Alongside building new homes, the city council also plans to invest £80 million in existing council housing between now and 2030 to improve homes and increase energy efficiency, helping tenants reduce their fuel bills.
"The most important thing about this project is that almost 200 families now have a high-quality council home to call their own. Residents helped shape these plans from the start and the result is a neighbourhood with modern homes, new green spaces, play areas and better facilities. We know there is still a huge demand for affordable housing in Milton Keynes, which is why we're continuing to invest in both new and existing council homes across the city. My thanks go out to the community, partners, and our colleagues who have made this possible."
"I am absolutely delighted that the regeneration of the Lakes Estate has been shortlisted for national recognition. This project has transformed the area and created a lasting legacy for current and future residents.
"The delivery of 183 new homes has brought significant investment into the neighbourhood, but the regeneration has always been about much more than bricks and mortar. It has been about creating a stronger, more connected and more vibrant community where people are proud to live."