News

14 December 2009

MPs support launch of Derwentside Homes’ new offices

MPs Hilary Armstrong and Kevan Jones open Greengates House with Derwentside Homes Chair Karen Stoker and Chief Executive Geraldine WilcoxDerwentside Homes showcased its new office on Friday, which has been built using environmentally-friendly materials.

The registered social landlord hosted the launch of Greengates House at the Greencroft Industrial Park in Stanley, giving visitors a guided tour of the building and the opportunity to network over a light finger buffet.

The opening was attended by North West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong and North Durham MP Kevan Jones, who marked the event by unveiling a ‘Greengates House’ plaque and delivering an opening speech.

The new office will provide a permanent base for Derwentside Homes’ 200 staff, bringing them together under one roof. Having one office for all Derwentside Homes’ staff will provide a more consistent and improved service for tenants. A modern cafe has also been built for tenants and staff which they can use between 12pm and 2pm.

Greengates House has been designed to reduce carbon emissions and make a minimum impact on the environment.

The main building has been constructed using timber panels to provide better insulation, thermally efficient windows, low water usage, energy saving lighting and ventilation and heating systems which monitor energy consumption.

Geraldine Wilcox, Chief Executive of Derwentside Homes, said: “We wanted to create an office which provides us with modern, open plan office space and helps us reduce our carbon footprint at the same time. We worked closely alongside the architects, Browne Smith Baker, our builders Galliford Try Plc and agents Faithful and Gould and we are very pleased with the designs which are going to make a significant impact on the area.

“Our architects helped us decide which eco technologies we should use and we’re confident that the new office will make a significant impact when it comes to reducing our carbon emissions.

“We are also delighted to receive the support of MPs Hilary Armstrong and Kevan Jones who both see the importance of Derwentside Homes in delivering quality homes and services."


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