Newham families move in to new homes

Local families have moved in to 10 new homes in Newham on an intermediate rental basis thanks to East Thames.

The affordable homes provider has successfully transformed the previously empty and dilapidated properties into quality new homes available for intermediate rent.

East Thames is one of many housing associations in Newham selected to convert old unused properties into contemporary homes to accommodate local people, following Newham council's decision to take possession of unoccupied properties through compulsory purchase orders.

Resident Mr Udeonu said: "The transformation of these sites has completely transformed my life, I really lost hope in finding a home to suit as Newham is the place I wanted to live so I never gave up. When I heard the good news it felt like a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. I look forward to the future and spending the new year with my family in our new home - It really is a fresh new start for us."

It is estimated that there are about 1m empty homes across the UK that could be used to house up by two million families living in a home that doesn't meet their needs.

East Thames project manager Caroline Toogood said: "It's great to see the impact this project has had on local families, it's definitely creating much needed housing stock by making the best use of resources and improving the local neighbourhood."