Wednesday, 1 June 2011

Video: Stonebridge 2007 Part 1

The blocks of flats on the Stonebridge Park Estate were mainly constructed by the developer Whimpey’s around the year 1976 and then demolished in 2008 – 2011. They are the product of the slum clearance of old St Ann’s, and were a planning defect rubber stamped by Nottingham City Council following a number of public enquiries.

It is amazing how people lived in these three tier blocks of one-bed flats, which were poorly maintained.

Tenants entered the front of the flats along concrete platforms (drawbridges), with railings all around. The top floor flats had the best security, while the middle row and bottom ground floor flats were quite vulnerable to crime.

With the construction of the flats came a maze of interlocking footpaths, quick get-always for criminals, and antisocial behaviour. The Police were left powerless to act as they could only patrol and respond to crime complaints on foot or mountain bikes.

The average rent was £ 46 per week with many people on social benefits. The main shopping was carried out at the Coop store in Carlton Road, now closed, and at Paul’s shop in Robin Hood Street.

The flats had hot running water and radiators connected to the EnviroEnergy District Heating Scheme. Stonebridge Park Tenants & Residents Association was formed in 2002, who pressed for the Regeneration Scheme which is happening on the Estate today.

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