87 new flats FINALLY opened on site of old office building in Hemel Hempstead

87 one and two bedroom apartments, built across four blocks, replaced the old Viking House offices, in Swallowdale Lane.

Mayor of Dacorum Terry Douris officially declared the homes open along with the chair and chief executive of Hightown at a special ribbon-cutting event on Thursday, January 9.

Guests included Councillors and staff from Dacorum Borough Council; residents, staff and board members from Hightown; as well as contractors, and consultants involved in the development.

Hightown Housing began their demolition of the five-storey building in December 2016.

40 of the new homes will be available for intermediate rent while the remaining 47 will be let via Dacorum Borough Council’s Choice Based Lettings system.

David Bogle, Hightown’s chief executive, said: “We are pleased to have officially opened Peregrine Close, providing affordable homes for local people who cannot afford to buy or rent at market rates.

“We are most grateful for the support we have received from Dacorum Borough Council for this development including grant funding. I would also like to extend my thanks to all those who have been involved in this project for their hard work.”

Peregrine Close is located between Redbourn Road and Swallowdale Lane, with easy access to the town centre by public transport or a short drive to the motorway and surrounding areas such as St Albans.

A cycle and footpath also links to the cycle path along the former railway line, known as ‘The Nickey’.

Graeme Sinden, director of Thomas Sinden, added: “We are delighted to have worked with Hightown Housing Association to transform the former Viking House site into much needed high quality affordable housing in Hemel Hempstead.

"This was an important scheme for us and we are pleased to see local residents already enjoying their brand new homes.”