Frequently asked questions about the Eric Street Development
As of 9 April, East End Homes stepped in to assume responsibility for the completion of the building works at Coniston House, Buttermere House and Windermere House. The Eric Street Development Company will be the main contractor for the duration of the building work. There is a clear contract between the two parties, and East End Homes will control both quality, payments and performance.
We will deliver a total of 95 much-needed flats across the Eric Street development site. We aim to be on-site this summer and in the meantime we’re continuing our regular conversations with residents. Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
Why did residents have to move out of their homes?
There have been leaks into a number of flats at Coniston House, which we are investigating to identify works required . One of the main leaks has now been repaired. Where they have caused damage, we have offered temporary housing and are fully committed to completing any repairs before you move back home.
Why did the leaks happen?
We are investigating the cause of the leaks, some of which are from the roof works, but others may be due to existing pipework. We are replacing all of the existing cold water mains within the three blocks to make sure this problem is not repeated. We look forward to help from residents in providing access.
When do you expect that residents will be able to move back into their homes?
We’ll know more about the programme of works in the coming weeks and will be in touch with you as soon as we have more details. We will remain in contact with you to discuss the programme and answer your questions. Our priorities are your safety and comfort.
Residents are taking legal action. Will you be offering compensation?
Compensation claims will be fully considered and addressed with you individually.
What’s happening with private tenants?
We understand how this situation has also impacted private tenants of leaseholders. Our priority remains the safety and wellbeing of everyone in the community. We have asked leaseholders to support us in ensuring everyone is kept safe and informed and to address any tenancy-related issues with their private tenants, who are their responsibility. We are working closely with the local authority to refer any occupants to be assessed for priority need and housing provision where needed.
What was the recruitment process / criteria for the Development Company?
The development company already exists within East End Homes with fully qualified members of staff. We acted swiftly to engage staff and subcontractors with knowledge and skills to deliver the Eric street project as contractor . We have also retained the support of individuals working to EEH with the skills and experiences to ensure that progress and quality is delivered on the scheme.
Who has been appointed to the Development Company?
Eric Street Development’s team have the skills and experience including health and safety, architects and engineers to ensure this project is delivered. As part of the future management of the project EEH will have a team to ensure that the project is delivered to the quality that future and current residents deserve and need. The biggest change between the project bring run in the past and now is that EEH will ensure that all suppliers are paid promptly and appropriately to ensure we achieve the quality we all seek .
How confident are you in your ability to take over the building works and resolve all the issues?
We have the in-house capability and skill set to proceed and resolve all the issues although this will take time. We are aware of all the issues that need to be tackled as part of the new build works and will put a programme together to ensure that all work is planned and coordinated.
How will residents continue to be updated about the developments of the project?
There are a number of ways we can do this: drop-in surgeries, letters or newsletters, resident meetings, text message. We will be guided by you about your preferred method of communication. We will publish relevant non-confidential matters approved by our Board on our website.
How can residents have a say in the future of the Eric Street development?
We are committed to ongoing resident engagement and involvement in the future of the Eric Street development. We’ve helped residents to form an Estate Management Board and together we’ve been working with Tower Hamlets Council, local ward councillors and community partners to explore options for the estate.
We encourage all residents to be involved in shaping plans for your estate and will provide regular progress updates. Submit an enquiry via our Contact us page or email ericestateproject@eastendhomes.net.