Leading UK homebuilder Avant Homes has announced a £90 million residential project that will revitalise a 22-acre site at Pleasley Hill Farm in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. This ambitious scheme will bring nearly 400 new homes to the area, offering a range of housing options designed to meet the needs of diverse
Bellway Strategic Land has submitted a planning application to Durham County Council for a 149-home extension to the Seaham Garden Village development. The proposed development includes open space and wildlife improvements. Bellway conducted a public consultation process over the summer to gather feedback on the plans. Martyn Earle, Strategic Land
Bellway is celebrating after one of its site managers in Derbyshire scooped a top accolade in a prestigious national housebuilding awards competition. James Kilby, who is overseeing construction at Holbrook Park in Chellaston, was announced as the winner of the coveted Large Housebuilder Regional Award for the East region in
Barratt London and Places for London have officially exchanged contracts on a transformative site in High Barnet, marking the second major project under their ambitious £1.9 billion West London Partnership. This decade-long collaboration, launched in June 2024, is set to deliver over 4,000 new homes across West London, with a
Moda, Loudon’s Yard, a new rental neighbourhood designed to deliver a service and wellbeing-led lifestyle, has reached practical completion in the heart of Edgbaston, Birmingham. With state-of-the-art facilities across its 398 homes and amenities, the neighbourhood cements Moda Living’s reputation for building the happiest and healthiest communities in the UK.
Bellway has won a prestigious award for its strategy to reduce carbon emissions across the business as it helps lead the housebuilding industry towards net zero. The company, which is based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and builds homes across England, Scotland and Wales, scooped the prize for Best Carbon Reduction Innovation or
Plans for a £70 million sustainable build-to-rent (BTR) development in Manchester city centre have been unanimously approved by Manchester City Council. The 23-storey residential scheme, proposed by property investment and development company Zephyr X, will be located at the corner of Carnarvon Street and Cheetham Hill Road. The project will
A transformative housing project is set to take shape in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, as developers Persimmon and Barratt Homes Bristol join forces to deliver up to 2,500 new homes. This landmark collaboration marks a significant step forward in meeting housing demand and enhancing local infrastructure. Persimmon has been working closely with
Ardent Capital Partners has marked its first foray into the UK property market with a landmark £200 million investment in a transformative build-to-rent (BTR) development in Leeds. This ambitious project is a significant milestone in the city’s regeneration, reaffirming Leeds as a hotspot for modern urban living. Set on the
Following last month’s successful appeal decision, Network Space Developments (NSD) has secured planning consent for up to 215 homes in Carlton, Barnsley. Of the 215 homes approved, 10% will be designated as affordable housing with an agreed contribution of over £1m to improve local education provision. The proposals also include
Leading UK homebuilder Avant Homes has announced a £90 million residential project that will revitalise a 22-acre site at Pleasley Hill Farm in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire. This ambitious scheme will bring nearly 400 new homes to the area, offering a range of housing options designed to meet the needs of diverse buyers and renters. A Vision for Community Living The development will deliver 396 homes as part of a larger mixed-use scheme, aimed at driving residential growth in the scenic village of Pleasley. Avant Homes Central is leading the project, which promises high-quality homes and modern amenities that will transform the local landscape while addressing the growing demand for housing in Nottinghamshire. Contemporary Design and Sustainability Known for its design-led approach, Avant Homes will incorporate its signature contemporary styling into the new properties. Each home will be built with energy-efficient materials and techniques, providing a sustainable and comfortable lifestyle for future residents. The development aims to appeal to a wide demographic, including families, professionals, and retirees, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. Economic Boost for the Local Area Beyond housing, the project is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Mansfield. During the construction phase, it will create jobs and support local businesses, while also enhancing infrastructure and public amenities. Avant Homes has a proven track record of working closely with communities, ensuring its developments leave a lasting positive impact. Commitment to Quality and Growth Avant Homes is renowned for creating premium homes that combine functionality with modern aesthetics. This latest project reflects the company’s commitment to addressing the UK’s housing needs, with a strong focus on sustainability and community-building. A Brighter Future for Pleasley Hill Farm Once complete, the Pleasley Hill Farm development will stand as a testament to Avant Homes’ dedication to delivering homes that blend style, efficiency, and affordability. With this £90 million investment, the company is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of housing in Nottinghamshire. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway Strategic Land has submitted a planning application to Durham County Council for a 149-home extension to the Seaham Garden Village development. The proposed development includes open space and wildlife improvements. Bellway conducted a public consultation process over the summer to gather feedback on the plans. Martyn Earle, Strategic Land Director, said: “Expanding Seaham Garden Village represents a practical approach towards meeting the area’s housing needs and our proposals will make a logical extension to the project. Bringing more homes to the area would make any additional local services within Seaham Garden Village – such as shops, schools and community facilities – more viable. “Our proposals would bring a wide variety of properties to this sustainable and growing residential area. These would be high-quality and energy-efficient homes, all featuring electric vehicle charging points and solar panels as standard. “The landscaping plans would create areas of open space for residents to enjoy, as well as improving the biodiversity of the site by more than 10 per cent. “The land is not currently allocated for any specific purpose in the Durham Local Plan, but we know that the Local Plan is supportive of development taking place on unallocated sites such as this if it meets the relevant criteria. “We believe this development would create a positive and attractive addition to the original Seaham Garden Village project.” The development plan features a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes including houses and bungalows. There would be 127 properties for private sale and 22 affordable homes for low-cost rent or shared ownership, while a total of 98 properties have been designed as accessible and adaptable homes. If the plans are approved, the development will be accessed from a new roundabout on the A182. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway is celebrating after one of its site managers in Derbyshire scooped a top accolade in a prestigious national housebuilding awards competition. James Kilby, who is overseeing construction at Holbrook Park in Chellaston, was announced as the winner of the coveted Large Housebuilder Regional Award for the East region in this year’s National House Building Council’s Pride in the Job Awards ceremony. He and his colleague Jamie Smith, who is site manager at Hatton Court in Hatton, were also presented with Seal of Excellence awards at the event. James was picked as the winner from 67 site managers across the region, who had all already been selected for Quality Awards in the first round of the competition for the exceptional standard of construction on their developments. James and Jamie are two of just 18 site managers in the East region to win a Seal of Excellence. James, from Rolleston on Dove, spent five years with Bellway earlier on in his career and rejoined Bellway East Midlands in 2022 as a Project Manager. He has worked on multiple sites across the Midlands. The 39-year-old said: “I am ecstatic to win such a prestigious award from the NHBC. To win a Seal of Excellence is exciting enough but to be chosen to receive a Regional Award is genuinely thrilling. I feel humbled. “It is great to know that all the hard work and dedication that I and my team have put in to make sure that we always put the customer first has been recognised. My ethos is that I want to build a home and a development that I would be happy and proud to live in myself and my team work effortlessly towards that target. Second best is just not good enough, so we strive to ensure we get it right first time.” Jamie, who works for Bellway’s West Midlands division after joining the company 10 years ago as an assistant site manager, has won a Quality Award and a Seal of Excellence Award for three years running at Hatton Court. The 36-year-old said: “Once again, I get to step up on stage and accept an award but I have to thank the whole team at Hatton Court who have been there for me every step of the way. It’s about the team as everyone here has given their all and bought into my desire to ensure that only the best will do in every facet of the job, every day on site. “I know I have given this job 100 per cent and, with the backing of a great team and supportive senior management, have been able to create a first-class environment on the site where homes of the highest quality are being delivered. It is a good feeling to get this recognition from the NHBC and is validation of all the blood, sweat and tears we have all put in.” Every site registered with the NHBC is judged against exacting criteria each year. Site managers are assessed on a wide range of aspects of their work including attention to detail, leadership, technical expertise and health and safety. Lee Wilkinson, Construction Director at Bellway East Midlands, said: “We are incredibly proud of James and his team at Holbrook Park, not just for the East Midlands division but for the whole of Bellway. Everyone in the industry knows just how difficult it is to achieve the Regional Award. “We’re also thrilled our colleague Jamie from the West Midlands division has been recognised with yet another highly deserved Seal of Excellence. The quality control, determination and team leadership skills which both James and Jamie have demonstrated are second to none. “We now look forward to the Supreme Awards in London in January and would like to wish James and his team the very best of luck for then – we know everyone at Bellway will be rooting for him to win.” For more information about Bellway’s new homes in Derbyshire and across the UK, visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Barratt London and Places for London have officially exchanged contracts on a transformative site in High Barnet, marking the second major project under their ambitious £1.9 billion West London Partnership. This decade-long collaboration, launched in June 2024, is set to deliver over 4,000 new homes across West London, with a significant focus on affordability and sustainability. A Winning Partnership for London’s Future The West London Partnership represents Places for London’s largest undertaking to date, spanning 60 acres of underutilised land across boroughs such as Barnet and Ealing, all boasting excellent transport links. Half of the homes delivered through the partnership will be affordable, fulfilling the pressing housing needs of Londoners. Following a competitive tender process, Barratt London was appointed as the official delivery partner in 2022. The duo has already achieved notable successes, including the completed Blackhorse Road project in Waltham Forest and ongoing developments like Wembley Park Gardens, a 450-home site adjacent to Wembley Stadium. Construction will soon begin on a flagship 900-home development at Bollo Lane in Ealing, the partnership’s first formal project, with 100 affordable homes set to be delivered by 2025. High Barnet’s Transformation The High Barnet site, situated near the station, will see the creation of approximately 300 new homes, 40% of which will be affordable, alongside small-scale commercial spaces designed to enhance the area. The project aims to revitalise the station’s surroundings and provide much-needed housing for the borough’s residents. Construction is slated to commence in 2026, with project completion expected by 2029. Beyond Housing: Community Impact The partnership’s impact extends far beyond housing. It includes plans for 285,000 sq ft of commercial space, generating an estimated 9,600 jobs and supporting the next generation of construction professionals through Places for London’s Educational Engagement Programme. A dedicated £1.5 million investment will help promote diversity in the sector, nurture young talent, and retain future workforce members. Barratt London’s active involvement ensures practical training opportunities and community support. Additionally, over £60 million will be channelled into local communities via Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy payments, alongside dedicated grants for local charities and organisations. Pioneering Sustainability and Quality Strong sustainability commitments underpin the West London Partnership, aligning Places for London’s Sustainability Development Framework with Barratt London’s ESG Strategy. Homes will achieve a Housing Quality Mark (HQM) 4.5 rating, while commercial units will meet BREEAM Excellent standards, reflecting a joint commitment to creating vibrant, eco-conscious communities. Voices of Leadership Craig Carson, Managing Director at Barratt West London, remarked:“We are proud to collaborate with Places for London in delivering the next generation of high-quality homes. This partnership reflects our shared vision to repurpose underutilised land for public benefit while addressing London’s housing needs through sustainable and community-focused development.” Jonathan Cornelius, Head of Property Development at Places for London, added:“The West London Partnership is a testament to our commitment to creating thriving, connected neighbourhoods. Our work in High Barnet will revitalise the area and provide urgently needed homes, continuing our broader mission to deliver over 20,000 homes across London in the next decade.” A Bright Future for High Barnet and Beyond As construction progresses, the High Barnet project will stand as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community integration. Through this groundbreaking partnership, Barratt London and Places for London are reshaping the landscape of West London, ensuring a brighter future for residents and communities alike. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Moda, Loudon’s Yard, a new rental neighbourhood designed to deliver a service and wellbeing-led lifestyle, has reached practical completion in the heart of Edgbaston, Birmingham. With state-of-the-art facilities across its 398 homes and amenities, the neighbourhood cements Moda Living’s reputation for building the happiest and healthiest communities in the UK. With design and materials inspired by Edgbaston’s nearby botanical gardens, Moda, Loudon’s Yard, has delivered 398 state-of-the-art apartments for rent on Inkwell Place. The homes are complemented by 14,000 sq ft of amenities including a 24/7 gym and fitness centre, private dining room, co-working space, and communal landscaped gardens. Rent includes access to these spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a 24/7 concierge service. The spaces are complemented by a programme of events and services run by the Moda, Loudon’s Yard onsite team, delivering an unprecedented rental experience in Edgbaston. The neighbourhood is the first phase of Moda and Calthorpe Estates’ New Garden Square Masterplan. Announced in 2023, the new 11-acre, residential-led urban community will deliver £6m of public realm, 2,400 new homes, office and retail space plus much, much more. The second phase of the masterplan – a 37-storey BTR neighbourhood – received full planning permission in August. The neighbourhood was delivered by Winvic Construction Ltd, creating 5,569 weeks of employment, apprenticeships and work experience opportunities for local people. By focusing on opportunities for young people and partnering with its supply chain and Birmingham City Council’s Employment Access Team, 42 young people under the age of 24 worked or trained on the site. A total of 31 apprentices and eight placement students from Aston University, South and City College Birmingham and Walsall College also gained valuable hands-on experience throughout the construction of Moda, Loudon’s Yard. As the long-term operator of the neighbourhood, Moda will continue to drive social value and contribute positively to the immediate communities and the Birmingham region. Moda, Loudon’s Yard is Moda Group’s second BTR neighbourhood in the city, having opened Moda, The Mercian – the city’s tallest residential tower – in August 2022. With a further pipeline of around 4,500 new homes to be delivered in Birmingham, Moda’s commitment to the city includes working with partners and local authorities to drive positive change and impact across the city for the long term. Moda, Loudon’s Yard opened its doors to residents for the first time in August, with lettings for the neighbourhood performing consistently above the business plan for the development. Andrew Parker, Managing Director of Development at Moda Group, said: “It’s fantastic to have reached practical completion at Moda, Loudon’s Yard. It marks just the beginning of our partnership with Calthorpe Estates for the New Garden Square Masterplan, which will deliver outstanding new homes and spaces that will transform this part of Birmingham for the long term. “We are grateful to Winvic for their expert delivery of the buildings, and thank our investors, Calthorpe Estates and local authority partners and other stakeholders for your shared vision in what we as Moda Group deliver.” Haydn Cooper, Chief Executive at Calthorpe Estates, said: “The completion of Moda, Loudon’s Yard represents an exciting milestone for Edgbaston and it’s a proud moment for us at Calthorpe Estates to see our partnership with Moda Living bring this vision to life; delivering not just outstanding homes but also significant benefits to the community, from job creation to transformative public spaces. We look forward to continuing to create exceptional places with Moda as part of the New Garden Square Masterplan.” Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-room at Winvic, said: “Reaching practical completion at Moda, Loudon’s Yard is a proud milestone that reflects the dedication of our team and supply chain partners. This 398-home community not only brings new housing and amenities to Edgbaston but has also created valuable employment and training opportunities for local residents and young people. We’re grateful to Moda for the opportunity to help bring this transformative project to life.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway has won a prestigious award for its strategy to reduce carbon emissions across the business as it helps lead the housebuilding industry towards net zero. The company, which is based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and builds homes across England, Scotland and Wales, scooped the prize for Best Carbon Reduction Innovation or Practice at the 2024 Building Innovation Awards. The award was presented at a gala dinner and awards ceremony held at The Hilton Deansgate in Manchester on Thursday (17 October). Carbon reduction is central to Bellway’s Better with Bellway sustainability strategy, which aims to put people and the planet first. The company has taken an all-encompassing approach to the delivery of low-carbon homes – through pioneering research, collaboration with the energy industry, and sharing findings and knowledge with the wider housebuilding industry. Bellway has also made highly significant progress towards science-based carbon reduction targets, which have been independently validated by the SBTi. Simon Park, Group Head of Sustainability for Bellway, said: “Carbon reduction forms one of the three key priorities of our over-arching Better with Bellway sustainability strategy and we are delighted that our industry-leading work in the drive towards net zero has been recognised at the Building Innovation Awards. “The ability to deliver carbon reduction at scale is an essential part of Bellway’s low-carbon strategy – in fact, scaling up is the very purpose of it, to ensure the industry can meet the challenges faced by climate change. “We are taking the lessons learned from the experimental Future Home we have built in a climate chamber at The University of Salford – where pioneering research is being conducted on a range of low-carbon technologies – and rolling out this knowledge to live development sites across the country. “Homes heated by air source heat pumps are now being built by each of our divisions and we’re the first national housebuilder to partner with energy provider Octopus on low-carbon Zero Bills homes. “We have also created a Future Hub within four Future Home exemplar plots at our Barton Quarter development in Bolton to provide training for our employees and other small and medium-sized housebuilders on Future Home technologies. This is spreading knowledge and expertise more widely, to help deliver the changes required to meet net-zero targets.” The first results from Bellway’s Future Home at The University of Salford’s Energy House 2.0 facility were published in January this year, showing that the fabric of the house closely reflects the proposed Future Homes Standard. Bellway has also started construction at several ‘no gas’ developments, where air source heat pumps will be installed at every plot. These are at Springstead Village in Cherry Hinton near Cambridge, Ivy Hill in Bacton, Suffolk, and The Willows in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. Meanwhile, Bellway’s first Zero Bills homes have been builtat Victoria Gate in Stafford. Each property features roof-integrated solar panels, a domestic battery and an air source heat pump, alongside Octopus Energy’s Kraken energy management platform. To find out more about Bellway’s sustainability strategy, visit https://sustainability.bellwayplc.co.uk/carbon-reduction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans for a £70 million sustainable build-to-rent (BTR) development in Manchester city centre have been unanimously approved by Manchester City Council. The 23-storey residential scheme, proposed by property investment and development company Zephyr X, will be located at the corner of Carnarvon Street and Cheetham Hill Road. The project will feature 237 high-quality one- and two-bedroom apartments, alongside a ground-floor commercial space, and is expected to break ground next year. Zephyr X Managing Director Graham Haydon-White expressed his gratitude to the council, saying: “Our development represents an exciting opportunity to support the ongoing regeneration of this vibrant corner of Manchester, addressing the strong demand for premium city-centre accommodation. We are eager to appoint contractors and commence work on site next year.” Designed by award-winning Manchester architects Hawkins\Brown, the building aims to add an elegant touch to the city’s skyline. It will complement the growing cluster of developments in the Great Ducie Street, Green Quarter, and Red Bank areas, blending sustainability with modern design. Known for its expertise in BTR and healthcare facilities, Zephyr X continues to deliver innovative, state-of-the-art living spaces that prioritise cutting-edge design and advanced technology. This latest project is set to play a key role in Manchester’s urban regeneration, enhancing the area’s appeal for residents and businesses alike. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A transformative housing project is set to take shape in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, as developers Persimmon and Barratt Homes Bristol join forces to deliver up to 2,500 new homes. This landmark collaboration marks a significant step forward in meeting housing demand and enhancing local infrastructure. Persimmon has been working closely with Wiltshire Council to secure outline planning permission for the expansive 177-hectare urban extension. Now, with half the site acquired by Barratt Homes Bristol, the ambitious project moves closer to realisation. The scheme will be delivered jointly by Persimmon, Charles Church, Barratt Homes, David Wilson Homes, and Redrow Homes, with outline planning permission expected early in the new year. The development promises high-quality, energy-efficient homes alongside a multi-million-pound investment in local services, including education, healthcare, transport, and recycling facilities. Residents will benefit from 68 hectares of public open space, incorporating play areas, green spaces, sports pitches, and allotments. A strong emphasis on biodiversity is central to the plans, with the retention of key habitats, extensive planting, bird and bat boxes, and sustainable drainage systems. The project also includes measures to protect and support bat species near Biss Wood and Green Lane Nature Park, alongside the creation of an ecology visitors’ centre. Additionally, the scheme will feature the Yarnbrook and West Ashton Relief Road, a critical infrastructure project to improve local connectivity. Developers’ Vision for a Thriving CommunitySeb Spiller, Deputy Managing Director for Persimmon Homes and Charles Church Wessex, highlighted the project’s wide-ranging benefits:“Persimmon is thrilled to collaborate with Barratt Redrow on this exciting development. With strategic highway improvements, biodiversity initiatives, environmental features, and significant investment in public services, this project will meet local and national housing needs while creating a vibrant community in Trowbridge. “Large-scale projects like this alleviate the housing crisis, drive economic growth, and provide wider benefits for the local area. We look forward to working with Wiltshire Council and our partners to make this vision a reality.” Rob Hart, Managing Director of Barratt Homes Bristol, echoed these sentiments:“We’re delighted to play a key role in this venture, bringing much-needed homes to Trowbridge. Alongside high-quality housing, our initiatives, such as the key worker deposit scheme and shared ownership options, are helping more people achieve homeownership and strengthen the local community.” With its focus on sustainable development, robust infrastructure, and community well-being, the Trowbridge project represents a major milestone for housing in Wiltshire, setting a new standard for urban living in the region. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ardent Capital Partners has marked its first foray into the UK property market with a landmark £200 million investment in a transformative build-to-rent (BTR) development in Leeds. This ambitious project is a significant milestone in the city’s regeneration, reaffirming Leeds as a hotspot for modern urban living. Set on the former site of the Leeds International Swimming Pool, the development will deliver 578 cutting-edge rental apartments to the heart of the city. Valued at approximately £200 million, the scheme is poised to redefine Leeds’ city centre, catering to the growing demand for quality, centrally located rental homes while expanding the city’s vibrant core. Leeds’ BTR sector is experiencing remarkable growth, fuelled by extensive regeneration projects and a strong appetite for urban living. The city centre’s footprint is projected to double in size from 228 acres to 458 acres over the next decade. With 24 BTR schemes currently proposed and three existing developments maintaining occupancy rates above 94%, the city is rapidly establishing itself as a leading hub for rental investment. Ardent’s project aligns seamlessly with Leeds’ vision for its South Bank area—a cornerstone of the city’s redevelopment strategy. This district aims to deliver 8,000 new homes, create 30,000 jobs, and revitalise the River Aire as a central feature of Leeds’ future. By addressing the growing demand for premium residential spaces, Ardent’s investment reinforces the city’s ambitions for urban transformation. The rising demand for high-quality rental properties in Leeds has driven rents to between £22 and £27 per square foot, with premium developments exceeding £30 per square foot. This growth echoes trends seen in mature BTR markets such as Manchester and Salford, positioning Leeds as a compelling choice for investors seeking opportunities in the sector. Ardent Capital’s £200 million commitment not only marks a significant milestone in the regeneration of Leeds but also highlights the city’s rising status in the UK’s build-to-rent market. Their confidence in Leeds as a prime destination for high-value developments underscores the city’s potential for sustained growth and modernisation. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following last month’s successful appeal decision, Network Space Developments (NSD) has secured planning consent for up to 215 homes in Carlton, Barnsley. Of the 215 homes approved, 10% will be designated as affordable housing with an agreed contribution of over £1m to improve local education provision. The proposals also include local highways improvements and enhanced protection for local wildlife sites. Footpaths are also being widened and a new pedestrian crossing will be installed at the entrance of the development, giving access to the popular Trans Pennine Trail. It is also hoped the wider development will include new links to existing public rights of way and offer scope for additional pedestrian access to Barnsley Canal. Simon Eaton, Senior Development Manager for NSD said: “We are delighted to have secured outline planning permission for the Shaw Lane site which will bring much-needed housing for Barnsley residents. Its location is ideal for commuting to Sheffield, Wakefield and Leeds and enjoys easy access to the rail network via nearby Carlton and Barnsley stations. “The successful appeal comes as a result of great efforts from our whole professional team. The development will ultimately deliver quality homes for the newest Carlton residents who want to live in this thriving village, but also improve local amenities for the wider community to enjoy and benefit from.” With outline planning permission now secured NSD is finalising a sales marketing pack with the intention of marketing the site in early 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
