Tolent starts work on two major Newcastle housing developments

Construction is underway on the final sites of a major housing project in Newcastle.

The ambitious £20 million scheme, which is the most valuable contract ever awarded by Newcastle City Council, will deliver a range of housing options for older people.

The 49 properties, on Avison Street and Coniston Court in the West End of Newcastle, are part of 148 new homes that will be available for affordable rent by people aged 55 and over.

Tolent is working in partnership with Homes England, Waypoint Government Income Fund, P+HS Architects, Kajima and Your Homes Newcastle as well as the council to deliver the new homes which will promote both independent living and social inclusion.

The five developments will offer a mix of good quality Tyneside flats, bungalows and assisted living apartments designed to high standards set by the council.

Chris Price, regional director for Tolent said: “All five sites across Newcastle are now well underway and making great progress. As well as delivering some exceptional homes for the city, we’re also creating some unique opportunities for the local community too.”

“With targets to engage with schools, offer work experience and apprenticeships and improve development opportunities for colleagues on site, we’re looking forward to working with our partners to create some great experiences on all sites.”

Derek Shepherd, director for P+HS Architects said: “Each site has provided an opportunity to develop a range of housing types with dedicated external gardens and communal facilities. Working with Tolent and the Council has been a fantastic opportunity to design new homes which offer a safe and enjoyable environment for persons over 55.”

Michelle Percy, acting director of place at Newcastle City Council, said: “Housing is a top priority for the council and we are committed to delivering housing that meets the diverse needs of all our residents.

“With a rapidly changing age profile we know it can sometimes be difficult for older people who need care or support to find a home that suits their needs and this project is a fantastic example of how working in partnership allows us to maximise limited resources to deliver a variety of good quality housing that promotes independent living.”

Craig Smailes, project director for Kajima Partnerships Ltd said: “We have worked intensively with Tolent and Newcastle City Council to ensure that each of the five housing developments has the funding in place to be completed to the highest possible standards, providing quality, affordable homes for the people of Newcastle, including those in need of specialist support.

“Our aim has been to create ‘a home for life’ for each resident and we look forward to delivering the final two sites.”

Avison Street will be due for completion early in 2020 and Coniston Court in the spring.

This contract means Tolent has been integral to almost £200m worth of investment in Newcastle including Sage HQ, Newcastle City Library, Wellbar Central and its latest development at Hadrian’s Tower.