Grass roofs in as crumbling homes turfed out

The traditional tiled roofs will be replaced with turfed ones when hundreds of new homes are built in Hyvots and Moredun.

The idea is that the turf collects rain water to stop it pouring on to the street and flooding drains during downpours. The new estate will also feature a pond where rainwater will collect, creating a miniature nature reserve.

The Dunedin Canmore Housing Association today unveiled new details about the development, which will spring up in place of 1960s tower blocks and other ageing housing.

The new estate will feature new houses and flats, a sheltered housing complex, and a series of parks, gardens and public pathways.

The latest designs are for the redevelopment of the Hyvots area where existing flats will be demolished in the coming months to make way for the new buildings.

A total of 364 houses will be knocked down and replaced and a further 211 homes refurbished as part of the project, which is due to be completed by 2011.

John Meehan, spokesman for Dunedin Canmore Housing Association, which is carrying out the work in conjunction with the city council, said: "This scheme is intended for the existing local community in Moredun and Hyvots, who will be the first people to be re-housed in the new flats and houses that are being built.

"It will dramatically improve the area as the ageing 60s tower blocks are being replaced with new, safer homes.

"We're also keen to create a greener environment for people living in this area, with a new pond being created in the Hyvots scheme to deal with excessive rainfall. We will also be introducing 'green roofs' made with grass seed in the new homes to soak up rainfall, which will replace traditional tiles.

"In addition, there will be a series of parks and green spaces which we hope will provide a green heart for the development. It should provide a safe, attractive environment for all people living in this area."

The area's residents have welcomed the green designs and are looking forward to moving into their new homes. Derek Colvin, a 55-year-old former council mini-bus driver, took part in consultation about the plans.

He said: "The problem with having a masterplan for a scheme like this is that it usually gets changed around by the architects and doesn't always end up the way you want it to. However, we are all delighted with these plans they have come up with. The new paths and gardens will help provide better security in the area while the parks will become focal points for people living here.

"The new homes look fantastic and are very well laid-out in these plans. They are going to be hundreds of times better than the badly-heated, draughty homes that were previously there."

Local councillor Ian Murray said: "This plan is going to fundamentally transform this area, which has seen a lot of problems over the years."

Councillor Paul Edie, the city's housing leader, said: "The refurbishment has got off to an impressive start and I would like to thank the residents for their patience while work is carried out."