A construction site in Waltham Abbey has benefited from a community project that has brought some vibrancy to its surrounding hoardings.
The former Shernbroke Hostel in Waltham Abbey is being transformed into a new residential development. The plans are being delivered by Essex Housing, our housing development arm.
Essex Housing have worked closely with Ninefields Residents Association, Essex Youth Service and King Harold Academy to transform the hoardings on Shernbroke Road into colourful art pieces for residents and passers-by to enjoy. Official branding is being installed in early 2023.
Art students from years 7, 8 and 9 at King Harold School have been busy over the last few months painting wooden canvases that will be fixed to the hoardings.
The content of the canvases reflects the topics that each class has been learning about.
Behind the hoarding, the previously vacant hostel building has been demolished. Work starts soon on a new four-storey building incorporating 16 modern apartments for general sale and a two/three storey building with 10 modern apartments for adults with learning disabilities.
Cllr Lesley Wagland OBE, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Renewal, Infrastructure and Planning, said: "Essex Housing is delivering excellent homes and improving neighbourhoods across the county and I’m pleased that they have been able to facilitate this community project to improve the look and feel of the temporary hoardings while development progresses.”