NEW SHAWBURY HOMES ARE A SURE-FIRE WINNER 
Meres and Mosses Housing Association (MMHA) has made sure it’s a great start to 2008 as the doors open to ten new village homes built for people with strong local connections to Shawbury, near Shrewsbury, and its immediate surroundings.
The homes, developed for MMHA by George Wimpey, are the first new properties to be completed since MMHA, a not-for-profit landlord, took over former council homes from North Shropshire District Council on July 30 last year.
MMHA is part of the Shropshire Housing Group which has pledged to build 500 new homes in the next five years.
The Shawbury homes in Millbrook Drive are a mixture of apartments, semi detached houses and bungalows, with three available to purchase through shared ownership and the reminder available for rent.
For John Quinn, who suffers from limited mobility, the chance to move into a downstairs flat has made life easier for him and his wife Charlotte.
Mr Quinn said: “We’re very pleased with the layout of the property which has helped our health issues.”
For Owen O’Shea, Hannah Boardman and their baby Callum, who have moved from Market Drayton, a new home is equally welcome.
Mr O’Shea said:“The move will be a new start for our family.”
MMHA Managing director Jennie Barfoot said: “ It has been a huge achievement to deliver new homes in just six months. Close working with our partner organisation, South Shropshire Housing Association has made this possible and is one of the benefits of being part of Shropshire Housing Group.”
Norman Aldhous, MMHA board member, added: “A supply of good quality housing for the people of North Shropshire is a top priority. There is a real demand for affordable properties to enable people with strong local family, work or other ties to live in the area.
“We are delighted that these new homes are now available . All those that are for rent have been allocated and the shared ownership are being marketed. Other new properties are also being developed across North Shropshire and some in Hadnall near Shrewsbury will become available later this year.
"We have also embarked on a £30m programme of property repairs and improvements across the region and more than 450 windows, doors, kitchens and bathrooms have been replaced.”
Pictured left to right: New home for a new year: MMHA Board Member Norman Aldhous, Tenant Participation officer Sheila Love, MMHA MD Jennie Barfoot and new tenants Mr & Mrs Quinn
For further information please contact MMHA Managing Director Jennie Barfoot on 0800 4346289.
Notes for editors.