The Braunstone estate has the second highest unemployment in Leicester and is the most deprived estate in the East Midlands Many of the council owned properties were empty and boarded up. Residents were moving out. Only homeless families were accepting a nomination into the area and these were not staying any longer than they had to. Crime and vandalism were high. Faced with a City Council proposal to demolish, NDC backed a campaign by some local residents to keep properties and refurbish them to a good standard

This is the story of 200 properties in an area called ‘Six Streets’ in Braunstone which were very nearly demolished due to their unpopularity. The story challenges conventional wisdom that demolition in low demand situations is always the answer and shows the difficulties for an NDC when faced with an appeal from a minority of residents who wanted to save their homes.

The City Council consulted with council tenants in a door to door exercise. Options were laid before them for rehousing in good quality homes and all 200 properties on Six Streets being demolished, which was very appealing to most tenants.

However, after challenging the original approach a strong partnership was formed with a local housing association and resident activists. This resulted in a sophisticated package of measures being put to residents which they agreed to, thereby paving the way for a community led refurbishment, training and environmental solution.

Not only was Six Streets saved, but a stronger community developed, dramatic reduction in voids, anti-social behaviour and rent arrears.

Learning points:

The community.

Q&A leaflets were door dropped, home visits were made, open days were held where residents were consulted further.

Braunstone Community Association
Mike Preston

//2001

case

Urban Policy

Housing, Social inclusion & integration