A new housing scheme led by BCP Council and delivered by AJC group has won an affordable housing award.

It received the Affordable Housing Development of the Year accolade at the Insider South West Property Awards.

When complete the scheme will deliver 24 energy efficient apartments for people who are currently homeless and require a stepping-stone between hostels and independent living.

The project aims to reduce dependency on temporary Bed and Breakfast accommodation, instead providing an alternative solution through the mix of 1,2- and 3-bedroom self-contained units.

The development includes a number of green features, which led it to achieve Passivehaus certification. The plans also include bat and bird boxes which aim to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

The development was also shortlisted in the Sustainable Development of the Year category in early June's South Coast Property Awards.

Commenting on the project, Councillor Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services, said: "This new development is so important to help towards our long-term vision of ending homelessness across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Helping people off the streets and into a safe place that they can call home, is something we're all very passionate about.

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"To be recognised in these industry awards for the social impact of the scheme alongside the green credentials highlights our responsibility to our declared climate and ecological emergency alongside our commitment to reducing and ultimately ending homelessness, and I'm looking forward to seeing this accommodation in use once the development is complete."

Reflecting on their involvement, David Cracklen, Director of AJC Group, said: "We are delighted to have won the Insider South East Affordable Housing Development of the Year as well as being shortlisted for the Sustainable Development of the Year at the South Coast Property Awards, as Herbert Avenue is a shining example of what partnership working can deliver. This trailblazing development for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has been designed locally, and is being constructed by our local supply chain. And, as soon as the new homes are handed over, they will be occupied by local people.

"With Poole and Sandbanks being such a tourist hotspot, the need for 'move on' accommodation might not be at the forefront of everyone's minds. However, the high cost of living here is why this scheme on Herbert Avenue is so vital. As a specialist in affordable housing, this eco-focused scheme is central to our core social values of building communities and delivering lasting change. We are very proud to be working on a project that will make a real difference to local people and the local economy."