Builders have officially 'handed over' 37 new homes at Whitebeam Way on Ockford Ridge.

Developer Thakeham has formally released the houses - the second and largest phase of the council's regeneration project for the 1930s era Ockford Ridge estate - to Waverley Borough Council.

Originally built to house the workers who constructed the A3, many of the houses at Ockford Ridge don't meet modern living standards. With the dual intention of providing more modern homes and maximising the value of Its land assets, the council has undertaken a multi-million-pound project that will see 85 existing houses replaced with 136 energy efficient new homes by 2025.

Developer Thakeham Partnerships Ltd has also run a community investment programme that saw St Marks Community Centre and the Scout and Guide Hut refurbished.

The developer also funded a new CV and job skills service and sponsored local employment skills charity Skillways.

Thakeham also invited pupils from St Mark and All Saints Primary School to visit the site and take part in ecology and construction workshops, as well as funding cycling proficiency training for local children.

In a statement, Waverley said: "Despite the challenges caused by having to operate a Covid-secure site, and having to close for a deep clean when one of the employees tested positive for coronavirus, Thakeham completed the build on time and to a very high standard."

Councillor Anne-Marie Rosoman, Waverley's Portfolio Holder for Housing and Community Safety, said: "Increasing the availability of affordable housing is one of the council's key priorities. We believe building new affordable homes is critical to enable local people to continue living in the borough, to keep them involved in the local economy and to keep our communities strong and vibrant.

"We are so proud to be able to give our residents these beautiful, modern, and well-designed homes for the future. They are also energy efficient, so not only will tenants save on their heating, hot water and electricity bills, but they will also help the council deliver on our net zero carbon target.

"I am delighted with the quality of the build by Thakeham, and very pleased that we will continue working with them on the next phase of the construction and community benefit programme, starting in spring next year."

Julian Rooney, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director Partnerships for Thakeham Partnerships Ltd, said: "Thakeham is proud to have built the 37 new homes, which not only deliver great spaces for the people of Ockford Ridge but also healthier homes with the installation of top-class ventilation systems. Beyond the houses, Thakeham was delighted to be able to deliver a significant community benefits programme.

"We are excited to be returning to continue this work early in 2021 with the Site B contract for 17 homes. This development will see our work with the Ockford Ridge community continue as well as leading-edge reduced carbon homes being built, and we are really looking forward to getting started on site soon."

Click here to view drone footage of the new homes in Whitebeam Way.