AIHA and Adler Housing Ribbon Cutting for Affordable Homes in Gateshead

The reach of Agudas Israel Housing Association Ltd was extended further north in February with the inauguration of its first housing project in Gateshead.

The new development, constructed by homebuilders Vistry, comprises 20 new large affordable family homes tailored for the Gateshead Jewish community, under a new partnership between Agudas Israel Housing Association (AIHA) and Adler Housing.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was conducted by Mark Ferguson, MP for Gateshead Central and Whickham. Among the dignitaries in attendance were Cllr Martin Gannon, Leader of Gateshead Council and Dale Owens, CEO of Gateshead Council.

The development has been named Dryan Square to honour the memory of Rabbi Dovid Dryan, a founding member of the Gateshead Jewish community. A commemorative tribute to Rabbi Dryan was unveiled and read out by the MP.

The project, which is part of the Gateshead Regeneration Partnership (GRP) and was supported by Homes England, comprises a mix of shared ownership and affordable rent five-bedroom homes. The houses were specially designed to meet the needs of the Orthodox Jewish community. All 20 homes have kosher kitchens equipped with dual sinks, and ample counter space and a sukkah with a retractable roof. The homes also feature solar panels which will dramatically reduce energy costs for residents.

Chaya Spitz, CEO of Agudas Israel Housing Association, said, “I am delighted that this exciting initiative, which has been many years in the planning, has come to fruition. I am especially grateful to the Gateshead Regeneration Partnership and Adler Housing for partnering with us on this venture, investing significant effort spanning a number of years to ensure the success of the project.”