| WHAT'S HAPPENING IN 2005? |
| BDS is currently renewing its investment strategy with the assistance of independent consultants for the next 30 years. This investment will also take into account customer preferences and aspirations and, as a consequence, the investment focus for 2005 and beyond will include the main tenants priorities i.e. kitchens and bathrooms, energy efficiency, security and neighbourhood improvements. |
| The largest of these projects is the upgrading of Kitchens and Bathrooms. This is a very popular programme called YOUR HOME, YOUR CHOICE. The tenant will be able to decide on style and colour. |
| Choices include: |
Kitchens - 5 unit colours
- 4 different worktops
- 2 cupboard handles
- 5 floor colours
- 8 different wall tiles
- 3 types of decoration in 6 different colours
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Bathrooms - 3 suite colours
- 5 bath panels colours
- 5 floor colours
- 7 different Ceramic tiles and decoration
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All these properties will also receive a new security front and back door. These doors come in 5 different colours, again ensuring that tenants have a wide choice.
Energy efficiency is a concern for tenants in terms of affordability. The programme aims for homes to be as power efficient as possible i.e. upgrading all single glazing to double-glazing, energy efficient heating and external insulation to walls. |
| Security was also an issue raised by tenants. Some 1200 homes will receive new security doors this year and several multi-storey blocks will receive new CCTV camera systems. |
| Some of the other projects this year will include neighbourhood improvements, which will involve the new Area Boards in establishing a programme for estate improvements within their areas. It is anticipated that some £2.5 million will be spent on these improvements. In addition,we're also designing adaptations for our tenants who require special facilities which we have identified while carrying out work programmes.
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