Published: Thursday, 4th September, 2008 08:55
What a house-warming!
By Maxwell Kusi-Obodum
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WEST READING families were treated to an afternoon of fun and games to welcome new residents of the emerging West Village on Saturday.
Site developers Barrett Thames Valley hosted the day in partnership with the James Butcher Housing Association, part of the Southern Housing Group, in Battle Square, off Oxford Road.
The day included circus workshops, a steel band and face painting. Community group SPAAK Education wowed the crowd with their breakdancing skills.
More than 150 residents and shoppers from Tesco were able to relax under the trees in Battle Square, an area of greenery complete with a playpark at the centre of the 435-home site.
Barrett Thames Valley spokeswoman Anne Toomey said: “We met lots of interesting people, and a lot of people entered competitions, and had a look at the show homes. We had perfect weather, and it was lovely to see everybody relaxing.”
The former battle hospital is part of a major regeneration of the area. It consists of a mix of private owned and 223 affordable social housing units. There is an emphasis on environmentalism, with houses complete with solar panels, and generous public spaces seek to encourage a flourishing community.
Annie Hanson 29, of Battle Square, said: “I’ve really enjoyed it and so have my children.
“I moved here in June and it’s nice to have everybody taking advantage of the communal area. This is a lovely area, and it’s great to be close to facilities like the library and the swimming pool.”
James Butcher Housing Association executive director Caroline Tiller said: “I’m really pleased that our new residents have settled in and this informal event was an opportunity to get them together. Southern Housing Group’s community regeneration arm, Foundation Projects, made a significant contribution in developing community cohesion and is bringing together our new residents and the local organisations that will have a positive influence on their lives.”
Residents also entered a free prize draw. The lucky winners included Michael Whale from Tilehurst, who received a £1,000 cheque, Timothy Moloagaswe of Valentia Close, who won a Nintendo Wii, and Sara Green won a Nintendo DS Lite.
For information on homes for sale at the West Village call 0118 951 3038 or visit www.barratthomes.co.uk
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