Topping Out Ceremony Takes Place at John Street, Newham

Posted 09/10/2024

The Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, and Higgins Partnerships have officially celebrated the topping out at John Street, Newham, where 70 new affordable rent homes will soon be delivered for local residents.

Designed to meet high sustainability standards, the new 'Passivhaus' homes will ensure increased thermal comfort, improved indoor air quality, and lower energy bills for residents. These homes reflect a commitment to energy efficiency and will significantly reduce environmental impact.

Colin Ricketts, Regional Director of Higgins Partnerships, commented, “We are proud to be working in partnership with the London Borough of Newham to deliver these new affordable homes for local families. These homes not only provide a safe and secure place to live but also reduce the risk of fuel poverty and contribute to a more sustainable environment. We're delighted that the Mayor of Newham could join us today to celebrate this milestone.”

Forty percent of the homes at John Street are designed as larger family homes, featuring corner balconies and generous roof terraces that maximise daylight and sunlight within the development. A spacious linear garden will serve as a central community space, alongside an expanded pocket park with newly planted trees. The development will also encourage sustainable transport with 129 cycle spaces available for residents.

Throughout the construction process, Higgins is offering a range of apprenticeship and work placement opportunities, supporting local residents like Rysharn, a Newham resident referred through the Royal Docks Internship Programme. Rysharn, always passionate about construction, is now working as a Site Surveying Intern at John Street, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Higgins is also engaged with local community initiatives such as Eat Club, a cooking class for young residents. The programme teaches participants about locally grown food and introduces them to a variety of cooking techniques and meals from different cultures, helping foster community connections.