A new Dacorum Borough Council (DBC) development in Hemel Hempstead which includes both affordable social housing and start-up business facilities has been shortlisted for the East of England’s, RICS Social Impact Awards.

The RICS award recognises the built environment’s positive and transformational contribution to society. Constructed by Jarvis Contracting, John Rowan and Partners worked collaboratively with DBC on the project as principal designer and CDM Advisor.

This is already the second award recognition for the project, as DBC won the Inside Housing award for the Best Affordable Development for its work on the innovative project at the end of 2019.

“The great partnership we have with the client and the builder mean we were able embrace important changes throughout the project, while still keeping it on track.”

Kylna Court is a flagship scheme from DBC and reflects its aim of building more affordable social housing in the area. Built on the site of a two-storey light industrial and business building close to the popular Maylands Business Park, the development comprises 79 one and two-bedroom flats, with shared communal roof gardens. The ground floor is made up of eight flexible office units, ideal for start-ups, and complete with shared meeting space. The building was finished in January 2019.

John Rowan and Partners worked closely with both the client and the scheme builders to ensure smooth delivery.

“We’re delighted that the project has been recognised by both Inside Housing and the RICS,” said John Rowan and Partners chairman Mash Halai. “The great partnership we have with the client and the builder mean we were able embrace important changes throughout the project, while still keeping it on track.”

Kylna Court boasts a unique architectural design, extensive landscaping and plenty of parking for residents. The building also has a high environmental rating, with rooftop solar panels, full floor and wall insulation, low energy lighting and high-performance glazing throughout.

Commenting on the awards, David Barrett, Dacorum BC Group Manager, Housing Development, said: “Kylna Court is an important development for us, in a prime location in our Maylands area.

“Our tenants tell us that new affordable social housing is an important priority for the council and this new flagship development encapsulates quality and affordability. To have the scheme recognised is excellent news and reflects the important role John Rowan and Partners played in delivering the development.”

The RICS East of England awards take place on 3rd June.