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Festival brings Kibblesworth residents together.

by tac & filed under Community involvement, Gateshead Council, Keelman Homes, Kibblesworth, The Gateshead Housing Company

A free event that marked the completion of four years of housing developments has been hailed a success.

The Kibblesworth Festival, organised by The Gateshead Housing Company and partners, was the finale to a £14m scheme that has included 140 new homes being built, improved children’s play areas and original artwork.

Hundreds of residents attended the free family event, which was officially opened by the Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Jack Graham.

While the estate’s children could enjoy new playground facilities and a treasure hunt, others could reminisce and reflect on the area’s heritage through a photo-wheel of images past and present.

Teresa Smare, Neighbourhood Services Manager at the housing company, said: “Kibblesworth has been transformed over the last four years and this was a fantastic opportunity for residents to come together and realise just how far their neighbourhood has come.

“It was a pleasure to speak with so many people and see first hand the benefits of the development, which can be enjoyed for generations to come.”

The £14m regeneration of the village, which is supported by the housing company’s subsidiary Keelman Homes, Gateshead Council, overall site constructor Keepmoat and the Homes and Communities Agency, has created almost 150 new homes; some for rent, some for sale and others for shared ownership to help first-time buyers to step on to the property ladder.

For more information call Birtley housing office on 0191 433 6102.

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