Residential : House Builders & Developers News
Caddick Construction completes phase 2 of SOYO in Leeds

Caddick Construction completes phase 2 of SOYO in Leeds

Caddick Construction has completed work on SOYO neighbourhood’s two newest residential blocks in Leeds city centre on behalf of Hestia, the residential platform of Federated Hermes Real Estate. Located south of York Road in Leeds, SOYO comprises two new residential buildings, known as Madison East and Mercer West, featuring 331

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Cordia UK breaks ground at Birmingham build-to-rent development with funding from Octopus Real Estate

Cordia UK breaks ground at Birmingham build-to-rent development with funding from Octopus Real Estate

Work has started on site at Cordia UK’s latest project and inaugural build-to-rent (BTR) development, The Lampworks. The Birmingham-based property developer has appointed Shropshire-based construction management practice buildfifty5 to deliver the main construction works for the project in partnership with residential general contractor Pedrano UK. The Lampworks will incorporate a total of 148 apartments and is

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The Future of Oxford Living Unveiled at Canalside Quarter

The Future of Oxford Living Unveiled at Canalside Quarter

Award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group has launched Canalside Quarter, its highly-anticipated collection of new homes in Oxford North. The inaugural phase will deliver beautiful and contemporary homes that will place residents in the centre of the innovative new district; offering savvy buyers an exciting opportunity to become part of a

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Northumberland housing company announces ambitious growth plans

Northumberland housing company announces ambitious growth plans

A Northumberland-based housing developer has announced plans to double its turnover to £80m and further increase its workforce. Having recently grown from 40 to now 70 employees it now has ambitions to take this to over 100 employees within the next year. To hit its targets, Ascent Homes will add

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Hines secures contract for 18 Blackfriars Road

Hines secures contract for 18 Blackfriars Road

Hines has secured plans from Southwark Council to build a new, landmark office and residential development at 18 Blackfriars Road. The approval secured working with architects Foster + Partners, and Lipton Rogers, allows Hines to breathe new life into a two-acre brownfield site that has remained undeveloped for 20 years.

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Crest Nicholson acquires land at Branston Locks

Crest Nicholson acquires land at Branston Locks

Crest Nicholson has acquired land at Branston Locks in East Staffordshire. The housebuilder received reserved matters planning approval for the greenfield parcel, where it plans to build 284 new homes, in April of last year. The purchase marks the next step in the latest phase of a Sustainable Urban Extension

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Architecture meets art on the Grand Union with Sanipex at Mitre Yard

Architecture meets art on the Grand Union with Sanipex at Mitre Yard

Mitre Yard is a landmark residential development helping to redefine the regeneration zone of West London. Developers O’Shea, one of the largest privately-owned construction and property development companies in London and the Southeast, approached SANIPEX GROUP for help in creating interiors that are as palatial as the building’s surroundings. Situated

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Flagship submits regeneration plans for The Abbey in Thetford

Flagship submits regeneration plans for The Abbey in Thetford

Outline plans have been submitted by the Flagship Group for the regeneration of the Abbey in Thetford. The project is designed to bring meaningful, long-term change and improvements to the Abbey and increase the supply of much-needed affordable homes. It would take place in phases over 20 years. Peter Hawes,

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A sign of things to come: construction begins at Broadnook, Leicestershire’s first garden village

A sign of things to come: construction begins at Broadnook, Leicestershire’s first garden village

Broadnook Garden Village, Leicestershire’s newest and most exciting community building project, has marked the start of construction with the erection of a landmark sign that’s guaranteed to put Leicestershire’s first Garden Village on the map! Broadnook developers have proudly announced the launch of construction, unveiling a new roadside billboard as

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Latest Issue
Issue 327 : Apr 2025

Residential : House Builders & Developers News

Caddick Construction completes phase 2 of SOYO in Leeds

Caddick Construction completes phase 2 of SOYO in Leeds

Caddick Construction has completed work on SOYO neighbourhood’s two newest residential blocks in Leeds city centre on behalf of Hestia, the residential platform of Federated Hermes Real Estate. Located south of York Road in Leeds, SOYO comprises two new residential buildings, known as Madison East and Mercer West, featuring 331 built-to-rent apartments, two commercial retail units, car parking facilities and sustainable public spaces for the local community. The project, focused on delivering quality modern living, has been developed by Caddick Construction through close collaboration with Hestia and joint enterprise partner Caddick Developments. The £57.4m project follows the completion of an earlier phase at SOYO, New York Square, where Caddick Construction delivered two 16 and 17-storey, build-to-rent apartment developments, housing 515 unique one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments for Moda Living. SOYO is the newest multi-use neighbourhood in Leeds city centre and once complete the state-of-the-art quarter will offer over 1m sq ft of space to live, work and enjoy. The new development includes some of the largest green public spaces within the city, high-quality residential buildings and a hub for local artistic exhibitions, enhanced by its location at the heart of the city’s cultural district. Hestia is focused on delivering affordable residential assets that will have a positive impact on the environment and communities in which they reside. Since its inception, Hestia has embodied Federated Hermes’ Responsible Property Investment agenda by sourcing and developing homes in neighbourhoods people want to live in, to a specification enhanced by an eight-year operational track record and all aligned to the Hestia Net Zero Carbon Pathway. The project’s contribution towards creating vibrant and authentic communities has been emphasised by the recent appointment of local artist EV Hardaker (Emma) as SOYO’s ‘Artist in Residence’. Having worked with Emma for almost five years, Caddick Group recently cemented this partnership with the launch of THE ARCH, a major temporary art installation embodying the area’s identity. Emma will be further animating the area as the major regeneration project enters its final phase. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Cordia UK breaks ground at Birmingham build-to-rent development with funding from Octopus Real Estate

Cordia UK breaks ground at Birmingham build-to-rent development with funding from Octopus Real Estate

Work has started on site at Cordia UK’s latest project and inaugural build-to-rent (BTR) development, The Lampworks. The Birmingham-based property developer has appointed Shropshire-based construction management practice buildfifty5 to deliver the main construction works for the project in partnership with residential general contractor Pedrano UK. The Lampworks will incorporate a total of 148 apartments and is set to be one of the most energy-efficient projects in Birmingham – offering exclusively A and B EPC-rated dwellings. As the first building in Cordia UK’s BTR portfolio, it will offer a combination of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and affordable homes, alongside contemporary commercial units on the ground floor set in a series of striking landscaped courtyards. Residents will have access to high quality communal facilities, including a co-working space, individual meeting rooms, a shared lounge and a communal kitchen/diner, fit out with modern designs and the latest technologies. Located at the intersection of Great Hampton Street and Harford Street, The Lampworks will reflect the industrial heritage of the Jewellery Quarter. It forms part of Cordia UK’s wider vision for Great Hampton Street, a masterplan to transform the area into a thriving residential and commercial destination. András Kárpáti, CEO at Cordia UK, said: “The Lampworks is the first development in our build-to-rent portfolio and a unique addition to Birmingham’s rental market – offering contemporary architectural design and amenities in a setting that maintains and reflects the Jewellery Quarter’s renowned heritage. “We are excited to be working with our construction partners buildfifty5 and Pedrano UK on the project and look forward to seeing our vision for Great Hampton Street continue to come to life with new residents and independent businesses.” As a member of one of the largest residential real estate development and investment groups in Europe, Cordia International (Member of Futureal Group), Cordia UK benefits from a vast track record of international projects and is driving forward innovative practices in the UK residential market.  Construction at The Lampworks is being supported by Cordia International’s key strategic partner, Pedrano Group. With 15 years of experience in apartment developments across Europe, Pedrano will work closely with local contractor buildfifty5 to provide strategic direction on the project. Gábor Szulyovszky, CEO at Pedrano Group, added: “At Pedrano Group, we have a long track record of delivering high quality apartments for Cordia International in Central Europe. “We are thrilled to be working with Cordia UK to deliver their first BTR development in Birmingham and will be supporting the project strategically from start to finish.”  Garry Whiting, Managing Director of Buildfifty5, commented: “Buildfifty5 is delighted to be partnering with Pedrano UK on the delivery of The Lampworks in the Jewellery Quarter. “Our appointment as construction manager and delivery partner brings together buildfifty5’s core strengths as an organisation focused on collaborative and practical solutions for our key sector clients.” Financial support for the development has been provided by Octopus Real Estate, part of Octopus Investments and a leading specialist real estate investor and lender, with assistance from financial advisor BBS Capital. The loan was provided as part of its Greener Homes Alliance with Homes England, which pledges to commit £172 million in finance and expert support to SME housebuilders ─ enabling them to build more high-quality, energy-efficient homes throughout England.     Nick White, Head of Development Origination, Octopus Real Estate, said: “We’re thrilled to have provided Cordia UK with the funding needed to develop this exciting project, conveniently located close to Central Birmingham. It’s a fantastic example of the impact our Greener Homes Alliance has in supporting developers to pursue greener initiatives, and reflects Octopus Real Estate’s commitment to providing quality, sustainable homes.” With the new residential units in the development set to achieve outstanding energy efficiency ratings, this partnership will benefit both future residents and the building operator. Residents of Great Hampton Street will benefit from nearby amenities such as Tesco, Morrisons, and popular restaurants and bars including Hockley Social Club and The Church Pub. The development is also just a five-minute walk from St Paul’s tram stop and ten minutes from Snow Hill train station. To find out more about Cordia UK, visit: https://cordia.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The Future of Oxford Living Unveiled at Canalside Quarter

The Future of Oxford Living Unveiled at Canalside Quarter

Award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group has launched Canalside Quarter, its highly-anticipated collection of new homes in Oxford North. The inaugural phase will deliver beautiful and contemporary homes that will place residents in the centre of the innovative new district; offering savvy buyers an exciting opportunity to become part of a transformative destination within a world-class city.  Designed by visionary architects Pollard Thomas Edwards, this impressive collection of 207 sustainable homes ranges from one to three-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom family homes set within eight acres of open green space.  Confident and striking, the streetscape at Canalside Quarter represents a new era of building style and a distinct departure from earlier 21st century architecture. Canalside Quarter is part of Oxford North, a revolutionary new district built on 64 acres of prime land within the city.  Connecting invention and investment to create opportunity, this stimulating extension to one of the word’s most famous cities will become a flagship destination. Providing an estimated 4,500 new jobs with incredible workspaces, state-of-the-art laboratories, cafes, bars, a hotel, a nursery, green space and cultural amenities, Oxford North will also prioritise sustainability, smart technology and diverse natural habitats. Canalside Quarter residents will benefit from this remarkable and unique environment, with all the essential elements to foster an exceptional lifestyle. Rebecca Littler, Group Sales and Marketing Director at The Hill Group comments: “At Canalside Quarter, you will be able to connect to one of the world’s greatest cities, while also being immersed within a revitalising green space that promotes a healthy lifestyle and community. Boldly modern in design, the architectural aesthetic and the inspiring new neighbourhood set a fresh standard for modern living. Hill is very excited to be a part of the evolution of this new district and vibrant setting.” Defined by exemplary natural surroundings and luxury contemporary design, the new homes have been thoughtfully crafted to the signature quality that Hill has become known for.  Embracing a modern way of living, the homes feature warm brick detailing and large expanses of glass that invite breathtaking vistas and flood interiors with an abundance of natural light.  Continuing this focus on the natural world, every residence has been designed to place emphasis on outdoor living and offers captivating views. Each apartment has been positioned to ensure that all balconies face onto the Neighbourhood Square, the development’s central hub, giving each home a view of the central green space.   Every opportunity to connect with the natural environment has been maximised, from porches, gardens, patios, balconies and roof terraces to living spaces that open directly to private outdoor spaces. Advanced insulation, energy-efficient appliances, water-saving technology and electric car charging points across the development also promote green living. Crafted to promote walking and cycling, lush verdant parks, historic woodlands, scenic canalside walks, leafy streets and eye-catching pavement planting bring nature to Canalside Quarter and create a restorative environment. The Neighbourhood Square will be a landscaped park with beautiful views where the community can come together and thrive. Play areas for children to explore and learn, and meadow grasslands where residents can relax, will also be incorporated into this remarkable new neighbourhood.  Located close to the scenic Oxford Canal and Canalside Park, the area will be a dynamic new gateway to Oxford. At just under a 15-minute cycle ride away from the iconic spires, residents will be able to embrace this mode of transport and many other opportunities to have an active lifestyle in Oxford North and beyond. The city offers excellent sports facilities and open green spaces that are ideal for running and walking, including Christ Church Meadow which is in the heart of the city and the Botanic Gardens, which feature rare and exotic plants.  In addition, the River Thames and the River Cherwell are home to days spent kayaking, paddleboarding, and of course, punting. The historic city of Oxford is lined with magnificent, mediaeval architecture and is well-known for its rich culture. Residents of Canalside Quarter will be able to access first-class theatre in venues such as the Oxford Playhouse and New Theatre Oxford and experience impressive live music throughout the year at The O2 Academy and more intimate classical concerts at the Town Hall and University of Oxford colleges. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Oxford Literary Festival, the Foodie Festival and the Oxford Bike Festival, to name just a few. For more information, please visit www.hill.co.uk/canalside-quarter Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Northumberland housing company announces ambitious growth plans

Northumberland housing company announces ambitious growth plans

A Northumberland-based housing developer has announced plans to double its turnover to £80m and further increase its workforce. Having recently grown from 40 to now 70 employees it now has ambitions to take this to over 100 employees within the next year. To hit its targets, Ascent Homes will add four new sites across the North East. This expansion will bring the developer’s portfolio of sites to 14 by 2027, equalling approx. 1,300 homes – a significant milestone in the organisation’s growth journey. Paul Errington, Director at Ascent Homes, said: “With our homes being in the stunning county of Northumberland, we have seen people across the UK showing an increased interest in our beautifully located developments, especially since the pandemic. “This has fuelled our ambitions for sustainable expansion, not just in Northumberland but across the wider region. Our growth is supported by newly secured land opportunities, which will enable us to introduce new and affordable housing solutions to more communities across the region.” “Our turnover was circa £30m last year, and we are confident that we can double that in the next few years.” Ascent Homes is the housebuilding arm of Advance Northumberland. It is an agile Northumberland-based housing developer dedicated to delivering developments that have a genuinely positive impact on those who live in and around them. Ascent Homes has built 600 properties in the North East, including over 100 affordable homes, making it a significant contributor to the regional economy, creating jobs and strengthening local supply chains. Current developments are located in Alnwick, Blyth, Choppington, Ellington and Wooler, with plans to develop more in Berwick-upon-Tweed, Bellingham and Hadston this year. Paul continued: “A key part of our growth plan is focused on the expansion of our skilled team. By the end of the year, we’re aiming to increase our headcount to over 100 employees. “It’s a very exciting time for Ascent Homes. Our next chapter presents lots of opportunities for locals, buyers, suppliers, and landowners. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to providing the right housing, in the right areas, at the right price for the people of the North East.” To find out more about Ascent Homes, visit: www.ascent-homes.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hines secures contract for 18 Blackfriars Road

Hines secures contract for 18 Blackfriars Road

Hines has secured plans from Southwark Council to build a new, landmark office and residential development at 18 Blackfriars Road. The approval secured working with architects Foster + Partners, and Lipton Rogers, allows Hines to breathe new life into a two-acre brownfield site that has remained undeveloped for 20 years. 18 Blackfriars Road is designed to be fossil fuel free, 100% electric and Net Zero Carbon in operation, with 95% of the site heat demand served by ground source heat pumps that share, store and offset energy. Beyond decarbonisation, it is set to deliver affordable homes, free workspace for local businesses and entrepreneurs and a cultural hub for locals as it aims be the first high-rise scheme in the UK to achieve the WELL Community Gold Standard, which certifies developments that support health and wellbeing. Ross Blair, Senior Managing Director and Country Head of Hines UK, said: “Our plans will transform an undeveloped piece of land, most of which has lain empty for over 20 years, into much needed new homes and first class, sustainable and tech-enabled offices, built around a central hub which we hope will become a brand new convening space for the local community.” The location benefits from fantastic transport connectivity and proximity to numerous cultural landmarks as well as being a stone’s throw from the River Thames. The new scheme will consist of three buildings, two delivering over 400 new homes, with 40% being affordable. The third will create 800,000 square feet of office space featuring a series of bustles that provide space with exceptional quality natural light inside and outdoor terraces on every third floor. Plans also include 20,000 square feet of new affordable workspace for local and socially minded enterprises, assembly rooms for use by the local community, modern educational space with links to local institutions, children’s play areas and a new, central public space with retail and food outlets situated at the heart of the development. A 150% increase in biodiversity is also planned for the site, including the planting of around 100 new trees. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Construction work begins at HarperCrewe’s brand new development in Higham Ferrers

Construction work begins at HarperCrewe’s brand new development in Higham Ferrers

Construction work is underway at HarperCrewe’s new development of two, three and four-bedroom homes coming soon to Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. The collection of new homes, which is being developed in partnership with the Duchy of Lancaster, is being built off Spire Road and is set to be launched later this year. Built with energy efficiency in mind, HarperCrewe’s latest site is designed to appeal to buyers on all rungs of the housing ladder – from first-time buyers, through to downsizers and growing families looking for their dream home. Sarah Boyce, Sales and Marketing Director for HarperCrewe, said: “Higham Ferrers is an idyllic location for many homebuyers, and with good reason. With a selection of charming local pubs, boutique and independent shops, quaint coffee shops and many historic buildings around the Market Square and College Street, it’s a wonderful place to live. “Not only that but it has great access to the A6, taking people to Wellingborough, Northampton and beyond. In fact, the train line from Wellingborough can take people into London in only 45 minutes – making the development ideal for commuters. “Buying a new home, rather than choosing an older property, means you can view, reserve and cherry-pick your preferred interior finishes straight from your smartphone or tablet, ensuring that your new home is tailor-made for your own tastes and needs. “Not only that but new homes are generally much more energy efficient than older homes. In fact, buying new can mean saving thousands on energy and household bills each year, which can mean the financial difference to many families between being able to decorate and furnish their new home, go on a fantastic holiday or just put some money aside for a rainy day. “We’re very much looking forward to releasing more details about the new homes coming soon to Higham Ferrers, so urge people to register their interest now to find out more information as soon as it’s available.” To find out more and to register interest to be the first to find out more about HarperCrewe’s new development in Higham Ferrers as soon as it’s released, visit harpercrewe.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Crest Nicholson acquires land at Branston Locks

Crest Nicholson acquires land at Branston Locks

Crest Nicholson has acquired land at Branston Locks in East Staffordshire. The housebuilder received reserved matters planning approval for the greenfield parcel, where it plans to build 284 new homes, in April of last year. The purchase marks the next step in the latest phase of a Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE) at Branston Locks, Burton-on-Trent. Sitting within a larger development site being delivered by multiple developers, Crest Nicholson will provide a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes which will contribute towards the 2,500 homes being delivered by the wider scheme. The homes will include several of Crest Nicholson’s house types such as the three-bedroom Hadleigh and four-bedroom Yorkley, with 22 homes available as affordable Shared Ownership properties. Proposals for the site also include public open spaces including a play area and walking and cycling routes. In addition, residents will benefit from a range of commercial, educational and leisure facilities on the wider development, including a primary school, pub, care home and hotel of up to 80 rooms. Tim Brickley, Managing Director at Crest Nicholson Midlands, said: “We’re excited to have completed the purchase of land at Branston Locks and look forward to delivering high-quality homes. The Branston Locks development will create a vibrant, sustainable community in a great location while providing much-needed homes within the area and we’re thrilled to be part of this wonderful development.” The SUE will also include vehicular access connections from Branston Road and Shobnall Road, green infrastructure comprising public open space, structural landscaping, sustainable urban drainage basins and associated drainage, as well as sports and recreation facilities. Staffordshire offers residents access to a range of fun activities with the likes of Alton Towers and Peak District in close proximity. The town is centrally located, with great commuter links to major cities such as Manchester and Birmingham. The M6 runs through the centre of the county and connects it to the rest of the UK by road, while there are several train stations in Stoke, Stafford, Lichfield Trent Valley and Rugeley Trent Valley running high-speed, nationwide services. For those looking to travel internationally, Birmingham, East Midlands and Manchester airports are within easy reach. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Architecture meets art on the Grand Union with Sanipex at Mitre Yard

Architecture meets art on the Grand Union with Sanipex at Mitre Yard

Mitre Yard is a landmark residential development helping to redefine the regeneration zone of West London. Developers O’Shea, one of the largest privately-owned construction and property development companies in London and the Southeast, approached SANIPEX GROUP for help in creating interiors that are as palatial as the building’s surroundings. Situated on the Grand Union Canal, the development is set to play an important role in one of the city’s most affluent and culturally energetic districts. This small pocket of London is home to huge globally recognised brands, from Harrods and Harvey Nichols to Victoria & Albert Museum and Kensington Palace. Mitre Yard offers innovation at every level – with 21 floors offering a choice of spaciously designed apartment types all with perfectly proportioned living spaces. The interior decor is specified to include a stylish palette of warm tone hues, rich vertical grain timber and complementary ceramic marbled style floor and wall tiling. Each space is sleek, functional and inviting for high-end London living. Meeting the brief, brassware solutions from the luxury BAGNODESIGN brand create an affluent atmosphere in the bathrooms, in line with the development’s underlying theme of ‘Where Architecture Meets Art’.  Basin mixers and wastes, thermostatic shower mixers and shower heads from BAGNODESIGN all feature, creating the desired atmosphere of sophisticated urban elegance. Specification includes beautiful Zephyr brassware and spa-inspired Cube showerheads, along with quality AQUAECO plumbing solutions. For more details, call 01924 233977 or visit www.sanipexgroup.com/uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Flagship submits regeneration plans for The Abbey in Thetford

Flagship submits regeneration plans for The Abbey in Thetford

Outline plans have been submitted by the Flagship Group for the regeneration of the Abbey in Thetford. The project is designed to bring meaningful, long-term change and improvements to the Abbey and increase the supply of much-needed affordable homes. It would take place in phases over 20 years. Peter Hawes, Flagship Group’s Chairman, said: “This is an exciting day for the Abbey, which has been at the heart of the Thetford community since it was built more than 50 years ago. “The outline planning application follows five years of talking to the people who have a home on the Abbey. Local people have told us that they do want to see improvements for the Abbey and they’ve let us know what things could be better.” The Abbey has around 1,100 homes and Flagship hopes to improve and retrofit some existing homes while replacing others with new homes, built to a high standard. The new homes will also be far more energy-efficient. The plan also seeks permission for an additional 320 to 500 homes – although this figure is yet to be confirmed and will be based on further consultation. Flagship’s vision includes improved parking, lighting, pavements, play areas and green spaces. The Abbey will get a new neighbourhood ‘heart’ with a neighbourhood park and community centre. There will be better and safer walking and cycling routes to the town centre, Little Ouse riverside and Thetford Forest. Mr Hawes added: “We are still at an early stage. The application is just for the principle of change for the Abbey and doesn’t set out the details of what would happen. A regeneration project of this size must be delivered in multiple phases. “Each phase of the detailed design will be informed by local people, through further consultation, with separate reserved matters applications submitted at each stage. Flagship has never undertaken a project with more engagement and consultation than this – but this is still the beginning. We’re going to keep listening and speaking to residents in the weeks, months, and years to come.” The Group plans to fund an independent tenants and leaseholders advisor to act as a “resource for the community” as the plans progress. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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A sign of things to come: construction begins at Broadnook, Leicestershire’s first garden village

A sign of things to come: construction begins at Broadnook, Leicestershire’s first garden village

Broadnook Garden Village, Leicestershire’s newest and most exciting community building project, has marked the start of construction with the erection of a landmark sign that’s guaranteed to put Leicestershire’s first Garden Village on the map! Broadnook developers have proudly announced the launch of construction, unveiling a new roadside billboard as well as the installation of Hollywood-style 9ft lettering made from corten steel. The lettering will turn a beautiful burnt orange with age and is a symbol of a grand beginning for this new village location at the heart of Charnwood. In recognition of Broadnook Garden Village’s commitment to the local community and businesses, bottles of locally grown Rothley sparkling wine were uncorked in celebration of construction launching in earnest. Raising a glass from the neighbouring Rothley Vineyard was the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Margaret Smidowicz, alongside James Wilson, Managing Director of Davidsons Homes, and Steve Keenan, Construction Director at Cora Homes. The creation of this new Garden Village represents a fresh era in community building, with plans that include car-free zones, cycle paths, village square, community nursery and primary school, enterprise zones, allotments and open green spaces that will connect residents to the local landscape. The project is backed by an investment of £32.6 million – of which over £17 million is being invested into local schools – creating more than 1900 homes. The village will offer beautiful homes ranging from one to five bedrooms, all part of the developers’ vision for a bespoke modern community that encapsulates the best of town and countryside. Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Margaret Smidowicz said: “The launch of Broadnook Garden Village is a defining moment for the Borough of Charnwood as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. This thoughtful, innovative design offers a sense of ‘place’, encapsulating the heritage of the surrounding area but considers the long-term future for the new community as it develops. “I recall the many consultation meetings and I am genuinely delighted and privileged to be part of this special occasion, which will prove to be an investment that provides more than simply houses.” James Wilson, Managing Director of Davidsons Homes said: “It is a privilege to be here, today, to officially launch the construction of Broadnook Garden Village – Leicestershire’s first Garden Village. Broadnook aims to bring the very best elements from all your favourite Charnwood villages into one purpose-built community.”  Luke Simmons, Managing Director of Cora Homes added: “We’re proud to be co-creating Broadnook Garden Village and in doing so establishing a modern, connected community that will offer residents exceptional homes set among landscaped green areas with open walkways to exercise and immerse in nature. Broadnook will create local infrastructure, enterprise zones, community hubs and flexible working spaces – designed to meet the long-term needs of homeowners from today into the future. At Cora, we call it Creating Amazing Places.” Broadnook’s chief architects have carefully designed the Garden Village to enhance this beautiful and highly desirable part of Charnwood. Residents will be able to enjoy being part of a modern community that subscribes to the ethos of connecting neighbourhoods with their natural surroundings. Taking its name from a local ancient spinney that runs through the site, Broadnook promises leafy tree lined walks – akin to Leicester’s New Walk – parks, allotments, wildflower meadows, play areas, beautiful, landscaped garden spaces and sports pitches. More than 50 per cent of Broadnook Garden Village will be devoted to green spaces, with future residents also able to enjoy car-free zones to allow them to move freely and safely – another nod to the Garden Village ethos.  Iain Pickering, Design Director at Davidsons Homes – and mastermind behind the reinvention of the Broadnook Garden Village concept – said: “We are creating Broadnook Garden Village without losing sight of how we all want to live: as part of a thriving community that feels modern and connected, yet firmly rooted in the beautiful nature that we are lucky enough to enjoy in Charnwood.  As a local  resident myself, it was important that we not only took inspiration from the history of Charnwood’s villages, but also looked to the future.” He adds: “We have taken many of our design cues from the local Leicestershire landscape: our street signs take inspiration from our neighbours at Great Central Railway; our architecture takes careful reference from the beautiful, period house styles seen in Rothley, Quorn and Barrow upon Soar.  Our tree lined walk, which is an integral element of our design, passes a nod to Leicester’s historic New Walk. Broadnook is firmly – and proudly – Leicestershire born and bred.”    The Broadnook lettering is made of corten steel that will rust to a beautiful burnt orange with time and exposure to the elements Broadnook Garden Village will be far from being style over substance; it will offer outstanding modern amenities that any thriving village community needs, including plans for a community primary school, retail shops, care facilities and a new GP surgery making every day living at Broadnook easy and enjoyable.  The village centre and amenities will, it is hoped, minimise the need for unnecessary use of a car within the Broadnook village.   For longer journeys, Broadnook Garden Village is exceptionally situated for transport links, with fast, easy access to nearby towns and cities. Leicester, Loughborough and Nottingham are reached swiftly by road and bus, and excellent train links bring London to your doorstep in around 70 minutes. East Midlands Airport is also just a short ride away by car, or the speedy 24-hour, skylink shuttle bus service.  Broadnook is, of course, on the cusp of the historic National Forest of Charnwood offering gorgeous woodland and breathtaking landscapes that can be enjoyed on foot or bicycle.  While landscaping has been in process for a while, today is a celebration of the new homes and sales office now underway at Broadnook. It is expected that the Garden Village’s first residents will be welcomed in autumn 2024. For more information, visit Broadnook.co.uk and follow @BroadnookGardenVillage on socials for more information, updates and

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