Brand new school and homes in Camden

Celebrations took place last week (Thursday 19 November) marking the official opening of new education facilities and some of the first council rented homes to be built in almost two decades. The Netley development, a self-funded initiative in Regent’s Park includes a new primary school, a nursery, an adult learning centre and ten new council homes.

Delivered at zero cost to the taxpayer, the development is part of Camden’s Community Investment Programme (CIP), an innovative 15 year plan to invest money in schools, homes and community facilities.

In addition to a brand new school with bright modern classrooms and a multi-use hall, there is a purpose built area for Robson House, the Primary Learning Support Service and new facilities for the Adult Community Learning Service, along with a mix of private and social rented homes.

The ten new council houses include two adaptable properties for residents with disabilities and eight four-bed properties. Through CIP, Camden aims to create 1,400 new and replacement council rent and intermediate homes. The new homes will provide much needed social housing for local people on the council waiting list.

Keir Starmer, MP for Holborn and St Pancras joined Councillor Angela Mason CBE, Cabinet Member for Children, in marking the official opening which included a ‘Global Goals’ exhibition and musical performances, showcasing the talents of Netley children.

Councillor Angela Mason, Cabinet Member for Children, said:

“The Netley site is a great example of Camden rising to our challenges. The old Netley school was run down, shabby and in desperate need of a refurbishment, but we didn’t have the money to build a new school due to central government funding cuts.

“We have managed to self-fund the entire Netley development through the sale of the private homes on the estate; it’s a real success story in these times of austerity, and something I’m very proud of.”