Gateshead-based regeneration specialist RE:GEN Group has been appointment to deliver the first phase of investment works on the iconic Grade II* Listed Byker Estate in Newcastle, since the transfer of engagements to Karbon Homes on 1 April 2021.

Byker Community Trust (BCT) has awarded the £1.8m contract, that will focus on delivering the improvements that were promised in a Community Pledge. This was created by BCT and Karbon as part of the consultation and was based on what BCT customers said were important to them.

Over 360 homes on the Estate will form phase 1 of the improvement works and customers will benefit from modernisation works to their homes including new kitchens and bathrooms with showers.

Surveys will begin in the next couple of weeks and the works are expected to start on site next month. Durham-based Elvet Construction Consultants has also been appointed to manage the procurement and will be project managing the works.

Michelle Bell, Assistant Direct – Byker Community, said: “We’re delighted to award the contract for the first phase of our investment programme to local company RE:GEN Group and to start delivering on our Community Pledge promises.

“Our commitments include transformational investment across the environment, additional funding to modernise homes and building new homes to meet the needs of existing and future customers.

“I’m pleased to see this already underway and to be delivering what our customers want.”

Jonathan Horner, Operations Director at RE:GEN Group, commented: “We’re thrilled to support Byker Community Trust. Our commitment to the bid for the Byker Estate will see the creation of several jobs, including the recruitment of joiners and customer experience co-ordinators. This is a truly exciting time for RE:GEN and the delivery of a project such as this will further strengthen our residential regeneration portfolio.”

Paul Flannigan, CSR Director at RE:GEN Group added: “As a company which has been deep-rooted in the North East for many years, RE:GEN Group take great pride in giving back to the local community. To be able to improve the living conditions and residential facilities in Byker is a fantastic opportunity for us and a credit to everyone associated with the BCT and RE:GEN teams combined.”

The first phase of works are expected to be completed by end of March 2022.