Archived page for historical reference: Posted 03/03/19
Today, the Mail on Sunday published an article highlighting problems we have faced at our site in Kings Worthy. Some of these criticisms are fair, and we have responded immediately. However, allegations – made without any named sources – that we have failed to comply with our planning obligations are utterly false and wholly without merit.
We explained to the Mail on Sunday that we take great pride in this project and take the delivery of the scheme, according to all its planning obligations, seriously. This includes the very high-quality public realm measures, many of which have already been delivered.
It has been a highly challenging project, with ambitious architectural goals and a complex mix of design and community objectives. We fully admit there have been problems in delivering the project to schedule and are extremely sorry for the outstanding snagging issues. Some of these issues have had to do with our corporate structure – something we will be addressing very soon – while others are problems arising from our volatile construction sector.
We’d like to get back on site and finish delivering this project for the people who own it and live there. We’ve explained the details of the problems to our residents and have kept them informed throughout.
Kevin made the following statement to the press:
“I’m personally very sorry for the delays and problems caused. Things haven’t been done quickly enough. I share our residents’ frustrations and am putting a plan in place to fix them.
“As an SME housebuilder, we’ve been hit hard by rocketing costs and a construction skills crisis – both of which are being exacerbated by Brexit uncertainty and the fall in the pound.
“Of course, Brexit is no excuse for the poor service residents have received and I am close to striking a deal to bring in new partners whose expertise and financial backing will enable HAB to deliver something we can all be proud of. I am hopeful of being able to make that announcement very shortly.”