Question 1

Why are you looking at regeneration of Appleton Court?

Accepted Answer

Like all responsible housing providers, Anchor has a duty to ensure that the homes it provides meet decent standards, are energy efficient and are well maintained.Building standards are evolving all the time, and what was the standard decades ago does not necessarily meet today’s expectations. All buildings have a life expectancy built in when they are designed. Appleton Court is reaching the end of its originally designed life span, which means the fabric of the buildings is becoming harder to maintain to modern standards. Energy efficiency and modern amenities cannot be retrofitted effectively, so the time has come to look at regenerating the site to provide replacement, modern, efficient homes for local people in housing need.The buildings’ age and design presents challenges around accessibility, energy efficiency and the level of ongoing repairs required. Regeneration would allow Anchor to provide modern, more sustainable homes that are more comfortable, accessible and affordable to run.

Question 2

What are the proposals for regeneration?

Accepted Answer

We are at the beginning of the process, and nothing has been decided. What we can say is that we will be working closely with residents to make sure you are involved in developing the proposals.  We will share details of our design ideas with you and listen to what you think about them.

Question 3

Why can’t the existing homes simply be retrofitted or upgraded?

Accepted Answer

There are two main things to consider. First, retrofitting would mean significant, long-term disruption for residents and neighbours. To complete the works in a timely way would likely mean relocating almost everyone for a year or more.“Upgrading” would involve substantial works to the roofs, walls, floors, windows and doors, and to all of the main systems, from water and heating to electrics and security. There is a real risk that retrofitting the building in this way would still only provide a limited increase in the building’s useful life, meaning a lot of disruption for residents for only limited benefit.The second issue is economic. Either way, Anchor would have to invest a significant sum, with no means of recovering the costs over time. Redevelopment makes more sense: if the building is to provide people with a good home now and for many years to come, it needs investment, and that investment makes economic sense if the site can also be used to give a home to more people. Taken together, Anchor considers replacement with newly built homes to be the most appropriate long-term option.

Question 4

Is this just a way to make more money out of more homes?

Accepted Answer

If Anchor can increase its revenue from the site, this means Anchor can provide more homes for more people and invest in better homes for our existing residents. We do not have shareholders and we do not make a profit. We have an obligation to provide good homes and caring communities here in Hackney, across London and nationally.

Question 5

How will you ensure that residents and the community will be truly listened to in this process?

Accepted Answer

Anchor has appointed a specialist team to advise on, and carry out, thorough resident and community engagement. They will work closely with the location manager and senior Anchor staff, and most importantly, they will make sure residents and their families are heard. We will also keep the local authority and other representatives informed throughout this process.

Question 6

When will the final decision about the regeneration be made?

Accepted Answer

We do not have a date. We are in the early stages of the process and there are still several stages to complete. However, we estimate that the consultation and planning process will take nine to twelve months. Any work on site is likely to start 12 to 18 months from now.The important point is that all residents will be given options, so that you can be confident you will always have a good quality home in a location that is good for you.

News, information and feedback for residents of Appleton Court and the wider community

Our commitment to residents

Our commitment to you and FAQs

Whatever happens next with our proposals for Appleton Court here is what we promise you as a resident:

No one will be without a home because of this change. You are our tenant and you will remain so throughout the process.

You will only be asked to move once you have a suitable new home to move to.

Everyone will have the right to return to a new home within the regenerated scheme, if they wish to do so.

If you would prefer not to return once the new development is complete, you can stay in your alternative home instead. Many residents choose this option.

Any change will happen through consultation with you. We will always work with our current tenants on this basis.

We will support you every step of the way, including help finding a new home, arranging and paying for removals, and reconnecting your utilities and services.

Support will be tailored to your individual circumstances, including health, mobility, family and pet needs.

We will do our utmost to help you stay close to your existing support networks, including family, your GP and other services you rely on.

We will keep maintaining your home and the communal areas as normal throughout this process.

We will keep you informed at every key stage, and your resident liaison manager will be on hand to answer your questions.

We will listen to residents’ views and set up a resident liaison group so you can stay involved throughout the programme.

Groups of residents who wish to move together will be supported to do so, wherever possible.

Frequently asked questions