Mill View homes rise from the ashes Photo: Jeff Sims
A new chapter has begun on a quiet residential street in Ashford, as four new houses have been completed on a site where tragedy struck in 2021. The new homes replace the properties at 13, 15, 17, and 19 Mill View that were destroyed by a devastating explosion.
The blast, which occurred just before 8am on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, was caused by a portable gas heater. The explosion ripped through the homes, shattering windows and shaking the neighbourhood. Seven people were injured, two of whom suffered “life-changing” injuries. The incident left three council-owned properties and one privately owned home badly damaged.
Now, with the help of Folkestone-based contractor Jenner, the Ashford Borough Council has rebuilt the site with two two-bedroom and two three-bedroom homes as part of a £1.25 million project. The new homes were constructed with a focus on energy efficiency and accessibility. The properties are equipped with air source heat pumps, underfloor heating, and solar panels. They also feature straight staircases and square-shaped bathrooms to accommodate future modifications for accessibility needs.
The new homes have an impressive EPC rating of B, and the council has confirmed that the new tenants are expected to move in soon, marking a new beginning for the community.
Cllr Noel Ovenden, Leader of Ashford Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Housing, said:
“I’m passionate about providing genuinely affordable quality housing for everyone, so I’m delighted that our Housing team has delivered a project to replace the homes that were destroyed by the explosion and subsequent fire. These new homes have been constructed to a high standard, with green features and future-proof designs that can adapt to a tenant’s changing personal needs.”
Martin Sandall, Managing Director of Jenner who constructed the new homes, added:
“It has been an honour for the Jenner team to continue our strong working relations with Ashford Borough Council and fulfil their aspirations to ensure these homes are returned to the community to ensure affordable, quality new homes are available to those who need them. They are designed and built with energy efficiencies in mind as we work together to build more sustainability and ensure the Mill View homes cater for all their resident’s needs.”