William Eichler 23 February 2021

Homes England acquires Harrogate sites to build over 800 houses

Homes England acquires Harrogate sites to build over 800 houses image

Homes England has acquired two development sites in Harrogate in a move that the national housing agency hopes will unlock land for over 800 new family homes.

In Ripon, a 23 ha site has outline planning consent for 390 new homes which will include 156 affordable homes. It was allocated in the adopted Local Plan in March 2020.

The 28 ha Bluecoat Park site in Harrogate is also allocated in the local plan. It has an outline planning permission for 450 new homes which 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 which are due to lapse imminently. The Government’s intervention aims to resolve these issues.

‘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,’ said the housing minister, Christopher Pincher.

‘I look forward to seeing the plans these communities develop take shape over the coming months.’

Stephen Kinsella, chief land and development officer, Homes England commented: ‘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.’

He added: ‘We have a strong relationship with Harrogate Borough Council, and we look forward to working with them on our plans for the two sites.’

Responding to the announcement, Trevor Watson, director of economy and culture, 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.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Strategic Director, Corporate Services

City of Bradford MDC
c£162,000 per annum, more for an exceptional candidate
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation Bradford, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: City of Bradford MDC

Director of Human Resources

City of Bradford MDC
£119,466 - £131,207
Bradford is at an extraordinary moment of transformation Bradford, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: City of Bradford MDC

Director of Resources (Section 151 Officer)

North Kesteven District Council
£109,668 – £117,623
Create the conditions for long-term prosperity
Recuriter: North Kesteven District Council

Director of Libraries, Sport and Physical Activity & Communities

Glasgow Life
£102,894.01 - £116,854.38 per year
Our teams focus on making a real difference through culture and sport in Glasgow. Glasgow, Glasgow City
Recuriter: Glasgow Life
Linkedin Banner