Ashtree case studies – Louise

The first of 27 homes have been handed over at Ashtree Close, Belton, as part of a huge £5million regeneration project.

This includes two and three-bedroom homes and bungalows for affordable rent, rent to buy and shared ownership, providing options for people to get on the property ladder.

Also incorporated into the design is landscaping of the wider estate to provide safe play for local children and to regenerate the area.

Running over two sites, the first two bungalows are now complete, with the rest of project one well underway and due be handed over in January 2024.

Hear from Louise who has just moved into her brand new home.

Louise 

“I’ve come from the old Ashtree building, which is eventually going to be knocked down and built on, so you can imagine how outdated and unpleasant it is compared to this.

“The building are just very run down and not fit for purpose. I’ve lived here for around five years and have seen the gradual decline.

“When I heard Ongo were planning to redevelop Ashtree I was ecstatic. That seems to be a long time ago now because of the lockdowns in between, but we’re nearly there now and I’m in my lovely new home.

“I had actually decided that I wanted to move away from the area, but then I got a phone call and when I came to view the home I completely changed my mind.

“It’s not overlooked, it’s finished to a high standard and it’s all on one level, which is perfect for me. My favourite part has to be the garden, I can’t wait for Spring so I can get planting.

“I used to live in Cyprus and run a dog rescue there, so making sure it’s right for my two babies is so important. It’s safe, the garden is all secure and we are so happy with it.

“I’m very lucky that I’m one of the first to be moved in, along with my neighbour who has also come from the old site.

“Something else I’m pleased with is the extra bits Ongo are doing as part of the development. For example, there has been an issue with fly tipping in the area before, but they’re now putting preventative measures in place like fencing to stop this from happening.

“It shows to me that they’re not just thinking about the homes themselves, but the people living in them and the area as whole. I’m a Tenant Inspector so am really passionate about this.

“I think people will take more pride now there’s such huge investment. Of course it’s still carrying on as people leave phase one for their new home and phase two begins. I’m eager to watch the progress of this.

“I’m excited for the future here at Ashtree and to see how it benefits our area. There are lots of good people here who want to make it a nice place to live.

“Something exciting to mention for the community is Belton Lights, which is coming up soon. We’ve been planning and fundraising all year for it. It’ll take place on 2 December this year with a Christmas light switch on and lots of activities so please come along if you can.

“Ongo also has lots of opportunities for people to get involved so please if you’re interested, make a difference in your community.”

To find out more about Ashtree Close or any Ongo developments, head to www.ongo.co.uk/developments.