Ealing to flatten 105 half-built homes after Henry collapse | Construction Enquirer News
Summary
Ealing Council plans to demolish 105 half-built homes after Henry Construction's collapse, citing cost-effectiveness over salvaging stalled projects.
Why It Matters
This decision highlights the challenges faced in the construction sector, particularly regarding project viability and the implications of contractor failures. It underscores the importance of thorough assessments in determining the best course of action for stalled housing projects, especially in the context of affordable housing shortages.
Key Takeaways
- Ealing Council has opted for demolition over completion of stalled homes.
- The decision is based on cost-effectiveness and long-term viability.
- Henry Construction's administration has significant implications for local housing projects.
- The council's shift in strategy reflects broader challenges in the construction industry.
- Detailed assessments were crucial in reaching this decision.
The homes were being delivered under a £40m contract awarded in January 2022 to build Passivhaus-standard housing across six small infill sites in Greenford, Southall and West Ealing. Work began later that year but ground to a halt in June 2023 when Henry Construction went into administration, leaving blocks partially completed and in some cases close to handover. After detailed structural and financial assessments, the council has now decided demolition offers a “more cost effective and better long-term solution” than attempting to restart works where the contractor left off. Sites earmarked for demolition 53 flats at Dean Gardens, West Ealing 25 units at Chesterton and Evesham Close, Greenford 11 homes at Wood End, Greenford 10 homes at Shackleton Road, Southall Six homes at Norwood Road, Southall At the time of the collapse, the authority said it was committed to completing the projects. That position has now changed as viability pressures bite and remediation risks mount. A council spokesperson said that in-depth assessments had led it to conclude that demolishing some of the existing, partly built structures would provide a more cost-effective and better long-term solution than attempting to restart building.
