Radian Development Odds-On Favourite
Radian has launched its latest new development, Paddock Close, a community of 53 new homes in the heart of Windsor. To mark the occasion, a free event for local residents was organised on the playing fields of New Manor Community Centre in Dedworth. The event included a circus workshop and sumo wrestling for the children whilst the Windsor Community Choir, a DJ from Liquid nightclub and a free BBQ kept the older attendees happy.
Paddock Close, four blocks of two-bedroomed apartments, was opened by the Mayor of Windsor and Maidenhead, Councillor Jesse Grey, who planted a tree in the gardens before praising the development which is solely dedicated to much-needed affordable social housing. Cllr Grey said, “We have a great partnership with Radian and are really impressed with the wide ranging knowledge and experience they provide us with. Radian deserves great credit; they tailor make housing for individuals and create communities where everyone is proud to live. The residents value their properties, so they treat them well and protect them, and this leads to a reduction in antisocial behaviour.”
Paddock Close is located in the vicinity of Windsor Racecourse and each block is named after a famous racecourse: Ascot House, Epsom House, Goodwood House and Kempton House. Mark Teeder a resident from Ascot House said, “I’m born and bred in Dedworth, as are my mum and dad, but I never expected to get a home here. I would never want to move away but couldn’t afford a place, let alone one with two balconies.”
The community event was well attended and much appreciated by the residents who took full advantage of the activities on offer at the end of the Easter holidays. Radian also provided stands with useful housing information for residents, and specialist organisations provided other useful information such as energy efficiency and ‘back to work’ advice. Michelle Simmonds, Dedworth Community Warden, explained: “The event today has attracted a wide range of residents from all over the length and breadth of Dedworth. It’s a great opportunity for us to meet the community in a relaxed environment, although Radian does also hold community surgeries every Wednesday in Sawyers Close.”
Danielle, aged 12, said, “It’s great fun and I’ve loved the face painting and circus workshop. There’s not normally a lot to do around here and if it wasn’t for this free event I’d probably be just sat at home on Facebook.”
Along with its wide knowledge and expertise of social housing and care and support, Radian’s financial strength allows it to invest in working with local authority partners to help them meet their strategic housing objectives. Since Windsor Housing joined Radian, it has been able to increase the level of development in the Royal Borough delivering 64 completions, a further 32 properties about to go on site and another 45 properties going through the development process.
Locally, residents are able to benefit from tailored services that meet local needs. Having a strong on-the-ground presence in the communities where Radian works also enables it to tackle key issues, like anti-social behaviour.
One of Radian's core objectives when developing new properties is to demonstrate skills beyond simply providing housing. It is very important to ensure that whenever Radian starts a new development, it has plans in place to build a community there. Radian’s community development teams, housing officers, benefits advisor and ASB officers work closely with local support agencies involved such as PCSOs, ‘back to work’ support, CAB.
Paul Yates, Director of Windsor Housing, part of Radian, “Radian isn’t just about bricks and mortar, it’s about building communities and helping people flourish. Our community development work offers diverse activities for younger residents to occupy themselves in a positive way.”
