Hudson House refurbishment and extension scheme

DASH became a Registered Provider of Social Housing (RP) in March 2020 and we are now in the build stage of our first project as a RP – the extension and refurbishment of our headquarters, Hudson House in Gilesgate, Durham.

Being a Registered Provider of Social Housing will be an extension to the work the charity already does in providing accommodation and support for homeless people and people at risk of homelessness. This excellent service will continue to be delivered and will be unaffected by the development of a new affordable housing arm to the organisation.

Following registration DASH established the development arm to the charity and named it Kepier Homes after the remains of Kepier Hospital in Durham. Only the gatehouse of the hospital still remains as a ruin. The hospital originally functioned as an almshouse for older men in housing need and later it also provided accommodation for travellers and pilgrims to Durham Cathedral. The location and function of the former hospital fits well with the ethos of our charitable work and also reflects an evocative local and historical connection with our base in Durham City.

Kepier Homes will build or redevelop properties to provide affordable homes for families or single people across County Durham. The first venture is to extend our headquarters at Hudson House to create four self-contained flats for affordable rent.

DASH has been based at Hudson House, formerly the Lord Gort pub, in Gilesgate, Durham City, since 2017. Part of the existing building will also be converted and work started in November 2020 and it is anticipated it will be completed by the end of March this year.

DASH secured Commuted Sums funding from Durham County Council and also secured Homes England funding to support the conversion of the first floor and part of the ground floor of the building. DASH invested funds from its own development budget in order to establish a package of funding for the scheme.

Gary Eaborn, Chairman of DASH’s trustees, said: “We are very excited to have launched Kepier Homes. We know from our work supporting people at risk of homelessness that there is also a great need for more affordable housing in our local communities.”

The accommodation that will be provided at Hudson House will be let in accordance with DASH’s allocation policy with a strong emphasis on local connection. Local people will be welcome to apply for the flats which will be available in spring 2021. DASH will be advertising properties in line with Durham County Council’s Key Options and the County Council will have some nomination rights.

Read further information about Kepier Homes