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Homes England acquires two sites with capacity for more than 800 homes
The government’s housing delivery agency has purchased two stalled sites in Yorkshire with the combined potential to provide more than 800 new family homes.
Both sites purchased by Homes England, in the borough of Harrogate, will provide 40% affordable housing.
In Ripon, a 23-hectare site known as West Lane, has outline planning consent for 390 new homes, which will include 156 affordable homes.
Meanwhile, a 28-hectare site in Harrogate known as Bluecoat Park has outline planning permission for 450 new homes.
The planning approval is due to expire this month and Homes England intends to submit a new planning application later this year.
Both sites have stalled for various reasons, including the associated enabling costs and planning permissions that are due to lapse imminently.
Homes England said its intervention will mean that these issues are resolved, enabling the delivery of homes that would not otherwise have come forward.
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The government’s housing agency also recently gained planning permission for the development of 1,300 homes as part of its redevelopment of the nearby Ripon Barracks.
Homes England will develop the site in partnership with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation.
Housing minister Christopher Pincher said: “This is fantastic news for Harrogate and a realisation of this government’s mission to deliver quality, affordable homes that are fit for future generations.
“I look forward to seeing the plans these communities develop take shape over the coming months.”
Stephen Kinsella, chief land and development officer at Homes England, said: “By purchasing these two sites, we’re once again showing our commitment to step in, unlock land and get new homes built where they are most needed.
“Following unsuccessful attempts by the market to deliver these sites, our intervention means these homes will be delivered sooner and with high standards of design.
“We have a strong relationship with Harrogate Borough Council, and we look forward to working with them on our plans for the two sites.”
Trevor Watson, director of economy and culture at Harrogate Borough Council, said: “We welcome Homes England’s involvement in seeking to bring forward and unlock these stalled sites.
“They are important in helping to deliver our strategic objective to provide new homes that meet the needs of the district.”
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