A new homes development in Walsall was the star of Channel Five’s ‘The Gadget Show’ after being chosen for a home security experiment.

Two show homes at McInerney Homes’ Beacon Wood development were used by ‘The Gadget Show’ team in a scenario to test alarm systems.

The scheme, off Hawbush Road, was selected because it has two showhomes next door to one another and made the experiment easier to carry out.

Jess Matthews, the director of The Gadget Show said: “We chose Beacon Wood because of the location and the style of the homes. They are excellent houses inside and out and we thought they would be perfect for our experiment.”

The alarms being tested were the AlertMe alarm and the X10 alarm, which are both wireless.

The alarm systems enable home owners to be alerted by phone if their alarm is activated while they are out and can also be programmed to control the lights in a home while residents are away to give it a ‘lived in’ look.

The aim of the experiment was to see how efficient these alarm systems are.

John Heald, sales and marketing manager for McInerney Homes West Midlands, said: “We were delighted to be approached by The Gadget Show and were keen to see the results of the experiment.

“The fact that both showhomes sit together is quite unusual and made their test much easier to carry out and much fairer on both systems.

“It gave the development some great national exposure and none of us could wait to see the final edit.”

A range of three and four-bedroom houses are on the market at Beacon Wood, starting in price at £149,950. They all include contemporary fitted kitchens and a high-quality finish throughout.

The showhomes are open from 10.30am until 5.30pm Thursday to Monday. For more information call 01922 494610 .

Pictured: The Gadget show team, from left, Suzi Perry, Jason Bradbury, Security Expert Michael Fraser & John Heald from Mclnerney Homes.

Potential homebuyers across the West Midlands are set to benefit from a major new Government scheme to make owning their own home much more affordable.

McInerney Homes, the company behind Beacon Wood in Walsall, Alice Court in Bilston and Hedgerows in Redditch, is adopting the new MyChoiceHomeBuy scheme at its developments.

The idea is to help people buy a property on the open market with a contribution from MyChoiceHomeBuy of anything of up to 50 per cent of the home’s value.

The mortgage is paid off in the usual way with a small monthly fee payable on the MyChoiceHomeBuy share.

The MyChoiceHomeBuy share can be paid back in stages or, if the home owner chooses, in one go. If the homeowner decides to sell – they pay the same percentage back on the value of the property at the time it is sold.

John Heald, regional sales manager for McInerney Homes, said the scheme would make new homes across the West Midlands affordable for many more people in the area.

He said: “We are delighted to welcome potential buyers looking to take advantage of this fantastic scheme.

“We believe it will assist thousands of people in the area to achieve the dream of owning their own new home and we will obviously help in anyway we can too.

“This has to be a first come, first serve deal as there is a set amount of funds for the scheme.”

A range of apartments and three, four and five-bedroom houses are on the market at Beacon Wood, Hedgerows and Alice Court. They all include contemporary fitted kitchens and a high-quality finish throughout.

For more information on McInerney Homes developments or the MyChoiceHomeBuy scheme call 01902 394 120.

McInerney Homes NE has made a large investment in the safety of their staff and sub contractors when on site.

Ian Robson, newly appointed Safety, Health and Environmental manager for the company carried out a review of the training provided to all members of the company and identified a range of training required to ensure employees have the necessary levels of competence to undertake their roles safely whilst making sure that all colleagues are safe.

Highlighting the company’s commitment to personal development, over 20 employees, recommended by the company’s Construction Director Terry Harrison for their dedication to the company, completed the two day site safety supervisor course.

The key individuals, who are all crucial to the supervisory aspect of the sites, passed with flying colours. Many are supervisors and those who provide frontline supervisory support required to attain acceptable levels of health and safety on new build housing developments.

Ian said:

“The course was aimed at those responsible for the health and safety of the teams working on site and members of the public visiting our developments. Over two intensive days the delegates were introduced to the elements that all companies must comply with, along with the added expectations that McInerney focuses upon above and beyond what is expected.”

The training and development investment is now set to continue with training in practical aspects of the new homes industry such as power tool and safe scaffolding training.

Ian continued: “We are keen to invest in courses that not only benefit the individual but also have a greater benefit for our company and our customers. A full training and development plan for all employees is currently being drawn up for the coming year and a whole range of topics will be available from first aid through to formal qualifications of all disciplines.”

More information about  McInerney Homes developments in the north east is available at www.mcinerneyhomes.com

McInerney Homes North East is proud to be keeping a time honoured tradition alive and has just introduced the latest wave of apprentices to the company.

Although there is a recognised skills shortage in the building industry, there has been reluctance among many home builders to recruit and train apprentices, possibly due to the costs and the time involved. McInerney, however, believe that it is essential for the future of their own industry that this investment in apprentices should continue.

The apprentices that joined the leading home builder last month are already working closely with Site Managers on developments across the region and will soon be working towards NVQ Level 2. The Company also employs apprentice joiners and bricklayers who are began work in 2005 and are already working towards NVQ Level 3.

Most of the recruits are aged between 16 and 19, and live in Sunderland, Durham and the surrounding areas, but McInerney also has “mature” apprentices, who are now working towards formal qualifications.

Luke Phillips, Jonathan Robinson, Myles Thurlow, Paul Hann, Rhys Hutchinson, Mark Hann and Callum Raw will all benefit from practical training on site, as well as working hard to achieve their NVQs in construction skills through the CITB.

Julian Bulman, Production Manager, McInerney Homes NE, said:

“For some time many companies have shied away from apprenticeship schemes and this has been a major contribution to the skills shortage that has affected the industry. McInerney is keen to continue to invest in the future of the industry and in the youth in the area and we are delighted to be working with CITB in offering apprenticeship positions.”

McInerney Homes North East has grown massively in recent years, and now boasts 15 live developments across the region. These offer a wide range of stunning new homes from apartments and two bedroom starter homes up to six bedroom executive properties.

Further information on developments in the region is available on www.mcinerneyhomes.com

THE banks of the Manchester Ship Canal played host to an authentic Deep South jazz event on Friday to mark the grand opening of two beautiful new show apartments at McInerney’s Williams Wharf development in Warrington.

Visitors to the apartments were treated to a performance from The Chicago Teddy Bears, Warrington’s very own swinging jazz band. The fantastic five-piece delivered a polished performance of jazz classics that captivated the crowd.

There were some sumptuous treats for food lovers too, including heavenly banoffee pie, indulgent salmon and dill crudités, olive and roasted tomato pastry pizzas and smoked bbq ribs.

Tracey Lowe, field sales manager for McInerney North West, said: “The deep south event at Williams Wharf was a huge success. Visitors loved the energetic jazz band that created a real party atmosphere. Then with a glass of traditional lemonade or iced tea, guests were free to explore the fabulous new apartments.

“Williams Wharf has such an idyllic location and the event was perfect way to give people the chance to spend a little more time at the development, soaking up the secluded atmosphere and realise what a unique place it would be to live.”

The two-bedroom show apartments were decorated with very different interior design schemes in mind to show their versatility and to appeal home hunters, June Cope from Culcheth and Connie Sallis from Warrington, were certainly impressed with the fabulously decorated and furnished apartments.

June says: “The show apartments are lovely and the design schemes inside really make you want to move in. The location is fantastic as well, lovely and peaceful. With the apartments at such a good price I’m definitely interested.”

Meanwhile Audrey and Frank Roberts from Warrington not only loved exploring the new show apartments, they also enjoyed the jazz event.

Audrey said: “The band is really good and the food is delicious. It is a great idea to help people to hear about the apartments.”

The development is indicative of Warrington’s sustained growth as a vibrant place to live and a centre for business investment. It is an exciting venture attracting young professionals, first time buyers and those looking to downsize.

Williams Wharf boasts excellent transport links throughout the region. The development is located just off the A50 and close to the intersection of the M56, the M6 and the M62. It also sits on the West Coast Main Line.

The development features a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments and prices start at only £109,500 for a one-bedroom apartment. It is really worth coming down to take a look around and experience just what home buyers can get for their money. There are also some amazing deals available from 5% deposit paid to free light fittings, curtains and carpets.

To explore the fabulous show apartments at Williams Wharf visit the sales office 11am – 5pm, Monday to Sunday, call the sales hotline on 01925 654 892 or log onto www.mcinerneyhomes.com.

SCHOOLCHILDREN at Sycamore Lane School in Great Sankey are set for a ghoulish Halloween after drawing some frightening pictures to scare local house-builder, McInerney Homes.

The ‘terrifying’ artistic designs will be turned into a huge vinyl banner by McInerney whose Briarswood Village development faces the school. The banner will be on display outside the school in time for Sycamore Lane’s spooky Halloween disco on October 31st.

Tracey Marshall, admin assistant at Sycamore Lane, said: “Year five and six created the drawings and there are some really fantastic ones. We can’t wait for them to be transformed into a giant banner for everyone to see.”
 
The spooky pictures were drawn by the upper juniors and the best design was judged by the staff at McInerney to be an eerie haunted house created by Ellie who was awarded £15 of toy vouchers. Other frightening pictures designed by Sophie E, Chloe H, Chelsea D and Ben also earned vouchers.

Pupils have also been busy planning frightening outfits for their Halloween disco. McInerney have given Sycamore Lane more toy vouchers as prizes for one pupil from each of the Key Stage one and two classes who creates the spookiest costumes and make the most effort for the Halloween disco.

Tracey Lowe, field sales manager for McInerney Homes North West, said: “Sycamore Lane School is right across from our Briarswood Village development so we thought the best way to celebrate this spooky time of year was with a host of witches and beasties from the school striking fear into passers by!

“Here at McInerney we take commitment and responsibility towards the wider community very seriously and by working with schools on special projects like this one at Sycamore Lane we hope to be more than just a house-builder.”

Briarswood is a development of beautifully designed two, three and four-bedroom homes. The village has been created with suitable homes for everyone from first-time buyers and young professionals, right up to growing families looking for a wonderful place to live.

The sales office and Briarswood’s beautifully decorated show homes are open Monday to Thursday, 11am – 5pm. Alternatively, call 01925 428523 or log on to www.mcinerneyhomes.com.

IT has been confirmed that the unmistakable wiggle of Marilyn Monroe has recently been spotted at Belgrave Heights in Darwen.

Rumours of the glamorous film star’s presence in the Lancashire town began after the opening of a Manhattan-inspired show apartment at McInerney’s Belgrave Heights development, off Bolton Road.

Marilyn was photographed posing with visitors, workmen and McInerney staff, in and around the new show apartment.

Stuart Milhench, regional sales manager for McInerney Homes North, says: “Contrary to all the conspiracy theories, it turns out that Marilyn Monroe has been living in Darwen for the past 45 years, and she was kind enough to add further glamour to our New York themed show apartment launch.

“The apartment boasts its own glamorous styling and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lights of Darwen town centre. Visitors loved our striking contemporary design and were seduced by our value-for-money and great deals. For those in the market for a secure and low maintenance home that has a chic-city style without the city price tag, Belgrave Heights’ show apartment is a must see.”

Built on the site of the former mill on Bolton Road, Belgrave Heights features 73 two-bedroom apartments and 54 three and four-bedroom family homes just a two-minute walk from the heart of Darwen.

Prices currently start from £117,995 for a two-bedroom apartment and savvy home buyers can take advantage of 5% deposit, mortgage subsidy, fitted carpets and help towards legal fees on selected plots.

For a taste of Big Apple style visit the Manhattan inspired show apartment at Belgrave Heights, 10am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, or 11am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday.

For more information please call sales on 01254 771 294 or log onto www.mcinerneyhomes.com.

McInerney Homes NE has shown support for a school near its Mile End Road development in South Shields by sponsoring its rugby and cricket team.

Hadrian Primary School, on Baring Street, South Shields will now have the smartest strips in the area emblazoned with the leading home builder’s logo.

Stephanie Storry, marketing officer for McInerney Homes NE, visited the school to present the twenty children with their kits:

“We are happy to support a children led sports activity and as Hadrian Primary School is close to our development, Mile End Road, in South Shields linking up was natural.

“The school has such a strong community spirit involving pupils, staff and parents, encouraging participation, self esteem and learning through innovative measures – it is a school to be admired therefore we were keen to show our support.”
Hadrian Primary School is at the heart of a diverse and vibrant community in South Tyneside. The school provides extended learning opportunities to all pupils both in school and through community links in the local area.
Mr Brown, head teacher, was delighted to receive the strips:

“Sport is such an important part of a child’s school experience - rugby and cricket are two sports we encourage our pupils to participate in, in a competitive environment.

“It is always appreciated when companies such as McInerney Homes North East show our school support. We aim to ensure that each pupil has a broad and balanced curriculum to suit his or her particular needs, and the new kits mean that those who take part in the two sports will be even more proud to be part of the team than usual.”

McInerney Homes North East has fifteen live developments across the region, and regularly focuses on its corporate social responsibility. More information is available on www.mcinerneyhomes.com.

The Mile End Road development is a scheme of forty nine two and three bedroom homes ideal for first and second time buyers, and growing families. With prices starting from £157, 950 for a three bedroom home, properties are selling fast. Open seven days a week from 10.30 until 5.30, the development boasts a stunning show home and sales office. Come and see for yourself or call Pat on 0191 4967081 for futher information.

MP David Winnick didn’t need a single vote to take a seat in a new house in Walsall.

 

The Walsall North MP, who is used to spending time in the House of Commons, was invited to officially open the show properties at a new development off Hawbush Road.

 

More than 90 homes are being created by McInerney Homes West Midlands at Beacon Wood on the site of a former envelope factory.

 

It includes a mix of two-bedroom apartments – appealing to first time buyers – and three and four-bedroom houses for those taking their second or third step on the property ladder.

 

Already several sales have been made on the scheme and Mr Winnick said he was glad to see a brownfield site in his constituency being put to good use.

 

Mr Winnick added that he was pleased to see new housing being made available including properties for owner occupiers and would also like to see social and affordable housing on other sites as well as at Beacon Wood.

 

David Griffin, managing director of McInerney Homes West Midlands, said: “We are very grateful to Mr Winnick for coming along to unveil the show properties.

 

“We have made a considerable investment in Walsall to create high-quality new homes at a price that local people can afford.”

 

Prices for the apartments at Beacon Wood start at £104,950 and the houses begin at £158,950. The showhomes are open from 10.30am until 5.30pm every day. For more information call 01922 494610.