25 June 2014
Two of the leading custom build developers active in the sector have been given the green light on their projects, signalling around 100 additional self build opportunities ahead.
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In Cornwall custom build developer igloo should be starting preparatory work soon on its 150 home project at Trevenson Park near Redruth (pictured, above), where a detailed planning application is due to be lodged any day now.
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has legally committed to the project alongside igloo and local housing association Coastline Housing.
Proposals for between 50 and 60 custom-build plots have been incorporated into the plans for the site, with the scheme offering a mix of affordable properties of all sizes.
Jon Sawyer, head of custom build at igloo, added: “The customer can come to our plot shop, choose where they want to live on our site, and get independent mortgage advice. They can then work with their chosen home manufacturer to customise their dream home and will receive regular progress reports as their home is built for them.”
HCA area manager Paul Britton commented: “The new homes planned for this site would make a significant difference to the area and the families who live there, and the custom-build element taps into a strong demand for people to design and build a home of their own.”
Meanwhile in Wiltshire Kevin McCloud’s HAB Housing has just received planning permission for its first major custom build project at Boreham Mead, Warminster (pictured, right). The 35 home scheme was given outline approval by the Council’s Western Area Planning Committee. This development is a joint venture with Bath based developer HPH.
The development will include new, shared public spaces and the creation of publicly accessible wildlife zones. Purchasers of the HAB homes can have a customised design, and have a range of build-out options. For example HAB can provide just a plot and a foundation slab, or as a finished weatherproof shell, or a fully completed home. Purchasers can either project manage the build or roll up their sleeves to complete it themselves.
Mike Roberts, managing director of HAB Housing said:” We are now able to bring 35 new homes to Warminster as part of a unique scheme that will include many affordable homes for people in housing need, create a sustainable, beautiful and accessible new community and provide public riverbank access to this area of the stunning River Wylye for the first time. On average, someone buying a new home in the UK stays there on average for seven years. However, if that home has been designed or built by them then that average triples to about 21 years. Clearly, homes designed and built with the input of their owners create homes they’re able to stay in for longer as their needs change and that longevity leads to lasting communities.”
