BLACK COUNTRY'S FLAT PACK HOUSING REVOLUTION

14-11-2008

A new generation of eco friendly "flat pack" houses is being planned in Smethwick - and if the trial is successful, Sandwell taxpayers would save millions. What's more, it could create jobs in the borough too.

The local authority's regeneration committee will consider proposals next week for a small estate of four and five bedroom houses in Stanhope Road to be built according to what's known in the trade as "offsite manufactured housing".

German firm Streif (http://www.osmh.co.uk/) who've already built 75,000 similar properties are apparently showing an interest in the site - and have discussed the possibility of building a factory in the area.

Their USP is creating buildings from sustainable or renewable sources. It's claimed that offsite construction halves building time and significantly reduces costs.

Cabinet member for regeneration and transport Cllr Bob Badham is backing the scheme.
He said: "We have been to inspect some of these homes and they are first-class.

"They are eco-friendly, quick to build and most importantly of a very high standard. It is a new concept to housing and certainly something we should look at."

If the scheme is approved invitations for tenders will be sought early next year.

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