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“Our team aim is to become over time an ethical landlord, bringing empty homes back into use for local families. To involve wherever possible local people with required skills to potentially gain employment or training from being involved in the renovation of the houses. Ensuring that these long time empty properties become loved and valued homes”

Neil Barber, West Marsh Development Trust

West Marsh Community Led Housing

West Marsh, Grimsby

meet ...

Alan and Neil

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Our Why
The West Marsh area of Grimsby faces a local challenge centred around poor-quality housing which is closely linked to wider social and economic issues such as unemployment, poverty, and social exclusion. With issues such as mould, dampness, and structural disrepair coupled with a lack of insulation and outdated heating systems leading to living conditions that affect the health and wellbeing of residents, having a profound impact on residents' lives. Many properties in West Marsh are owned by landlords who do not live locally or are not actively involved in managing their properties, and may not take the necessary steps to keep their properties safe and comfortable.

Our Idea
To tackle this challenge, we will be working closely with the North East Lincolnshire Council and other partners, drawing inspiration from the successful model implemented by our neighbours, East Marsh United. We are targeting taking ownership of five empty houses and transforming them into five affordable, well-appointed homes for families in the West Marsh. By taking these empty properties and breathing new life into them, we aim to provide secure, safe, and affordable homes that meet the needs of local people.

This initiative goes beyond merely providing housing. It represents our commitment to becoming ethical landlords who support the people of West Marsh by providing a permanent, affordable, and secure place to call home. By offering guidance, support, and resources, we hope to encourage more landlords to adopt practices that contribute to a healthier, more vibrant community.

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About

Alan and Neil aim to work with a mentor to produce a Business Plan to bring as many houses into Community Ownership as an ethical landlord as part of a 30-year plan. Together rallying around the belief that real change happens from the ground up.

West Marsh Development Trust

West Marsh Development Trust operates out of the West Marsh Community Centre, established in December 1999. Working to the benefit of all residents in the area and others from other areas of North East Lincolnshire.

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