A site in Gateshead will welcome both modular homes and traditionally built houses; therefore potential buyers have the possibility to compare the quality of both methods. Gateshead Innovation Village is a live research project led by housing provider Home Group, which will see a range of houses designs take shape on the one site.

The site will be a place to compare and contrast modern methods of construction, improving the public image of modular homes. The first homes are being manufactured in the Yorkshire factory of Ilke Homes at the moment and they will be ready for delivery to the Gateshead site in just ten weeks’ time.

“We’re all incredibly excited about this project as it will see a wide range of homes and construction methods being tried and tested together on the one site,” said Joy Whinnerah, Head of Delivery at Home Group. “Not only that, but we are really keen to understand what our customers like and don’t like about living in these types of homes. So we will be monitoring a range of aspects to check how these homes perform for the customers who live in them.”

Apart from Home Group, the project is also being backed by Homes England and development partner ENGIE.

“Not only is this unique project creating a step change for the way in which people view modular homes, but it is allowing us the opportunity to upskill the next generation of industry trainees, apprentices and graduates on modern methods of construction,” said Andrew McIntosh, Regional Managing Director for ENGIE.

Neil Graham, Head of Accelerated Delivery, Yorkshire, North East and The Humber, Homes England also commented on the project: “In addition to Ilke Homes, Home Group is also working with Premier Modular, Xella UK and Icarus Light Steel Framing. There will also be six traditionally built, semi-detached homes on site. All homes will be for affordable rent and residents will have the opportunity to trial and test a wide range of smart technology products and green energy solutions.”