Jefferson Park, Whitehaven, August 2010

[the_undertaker]

Jefferson Park, named after a local rum-importing family who were prominent during Whitehaven’s time as an important trading harbour, was commissioned in 2008 with the intention of building a range of 48 new homes. The four-acre site had been neglected for nearly 30 years beforehand since the old brickworks and laundry buildings there were closed and demolished in the 1980’s.

The development by Lancashire-based Jennyford Limited ”comprises an attractive mix of two bedroomed apartments together with spacious 2, 3 and 4 bedroomed town houses, all with garaging or designated car parking spaces. Many of the designs include balconies and features which enhance the contemporary theme of the development, an approach which is carried through to the interiors which include the latest in kitchen and bathroom designs”

The Whitehaven News reported on November 2008 that “the first 25 properties have just gone on the market with Grisdales Estate Agents and a quarter are already under offer. Tim Grisedale, of Grisdales Estate Agents, said local interest has been strong: “Despite a volatile market nationally, we are finding the Whitehaven market is bucking the trend with good levels of buyer activity at all price levels”

This is where the good fortune ends however, as by the end of 2009, Jennyford Limited had gone in to receivership - the development was halted and the properties boarded up. By this time, 20 of the properties had been built, although not fully completed. Those unlucky ones who had paid a deposit for their new homes are facing a battle to get their money back.

The site now stands eerily silent and incomplete, awaiting a new developer to buy the entire site. A scene that may be familiar in other parts of the UK that suffered at the hands of the collapse of the housing market.

Any offers!?