Building work on one of east London’s largest regeneration projects is continuing at pace on Barking’s Gascoigne Estate.
Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, visited site on Friday 19 June, to see how construction of the latest phase of 200 new homes is progressing.
Cllr Rodwell said: “It’s great to see our contractors, Wates Residential, safely picking up the pace on the renewal of the Gascoigne. It creates a sense of hope for a better future in an otherwise bleak time.
“The new Gascoigne will be a model of high quality affordable housing creating new sustainable homes for local people in the heart of Barking.”
Cllr Rodwell was joined by the Managing Director of Wates Residential, Paul Nicholls and Be First’s Construction Director, Tom Mather.
Tom Mather said: “By accelerating the pace of construction we are not only building more affordable homes for local people but also helping to restart London’s economy.
“Construction is the critical part of the London economy and without it safely rebooting the country’s economy will not start to recover.”
Wates Residential’s Paul Nicholls said: “We believe that everyone deserves a great place to live so we are delighted to be working with Be First to deliver these essential homes for local people. However, our commitment goes beyond bricks and mortar – we are invested in ensuring that the local economy and local community continue to thrive.
“By hiring over a quarter of our site workforce from within the borough, procuring materials and services from local businesses and continuing to deliver virtual training for local students and unemployed adults during lockdown, we hope to leave a positive legacy for Barking and Dagenham that endures long after these homes are completed.”
