The houses, all destined for the rental market, will use solar panel technology to help reduce residents' utility bills

Lovell starts construction at £28m Newcastle site

10 September 2024 10:57 Sally Gibson Comments (0)

The development will consist of 146 new energy-efficient homes in Benwell Dene, which will all be available for long-term rent.

Lovell has partnered with single-family rental developer and operator Placefirst on the project, which is due to be completed in June 2027.

JM Architects and Southern Green designed the neighbourhood and other key members of the project team include civil and structural engineers Curtins, project managers and planning consultants Identity Consult, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing consultants, TACE.

The site is located at Benwell Dene in the west end of the city and the homes will include two and three-storey houses with two to four-bedroom designs. There will also be 27 two-bedroom apartments across nine three-storey buildings.

In terms of sustainability and community living, each of the homes will have air source heat pumps and solar panels, and the layout of the development includes green spaces for residents.

Phil Jones, head of land and partnerships for the North East region of Lovell, said: “Many people seek to rent rather than purchase their home, yet often that comes with limitations. With Placefirst, however, tenants can enjoy a high-quality property with nearby green open space. The properties have long-term, flexible leases so tenants can have confidence that their homes will be theirs for as long they want. It’s really their home.

“The Benwell Dene site has stood vacant for many years but now, through this important partnership, we are turning it into a much-needed neighbourhood of high-quality rental homes. Seeing construction work begin here is highly positive for the local area.”

David Mawson, chief executive of Placefirst, said: “After working closely with Newcastle City Council to secure prime brownfield land and gain planning consent, today’s milestone will see us deliver 146 new homes that are tailored to the specific needs of the area.”

The homes will be built on land bounded by Upper Hodgkin Park, Delaval Road, Benwell Lane and Milford Road.