A £120m new housing scheme in Weymouth is now a step closer to being built. Lovell Southern, part of the £3bn Morgan Sindall Group, has entered into a joint venture agreement with Abri, one of the south’s largest housing providers, to build 500 homes as an urban extension on the outskirts of the town.
The site will also feature a new primary school, a care home, local centre, commercial and employment space and will benefit from the creation of large areas of public open space.
With outline planning agreed by Dorset council, the next steps will be to submit a reserve matters planning application for the design and mix of the development in the Spring.
Lovell says the benefits of the proposed scheme transform the area and generate much needed affordable housing for local people. The proposed new development of houses is situated within a strategic development location as identified in the Local Plan.
It is widely accepted the development of these sites would make a significant contribution to the local housing targets. The scheme proposes 45 per cent (225) affordable homes, which is a significant planning benefit to the borough and local area.
The development would also benefit from improved connectivity throughout the site with the provision of new footpaths and cycle paths linking to the national cycle network.
The design will be developed to preserve and enhance the natural environment through protection of existing trees, headrows, create wild life corridors and habitats.
South coast architects Boyle+Summers is leading on the master planning of the development including place making and design of houses.
Andrew Johnston, Regional Manager Director for Lovell Southern, said: “We believe this exciting development is a step closer to providing hundreds of quality new homes in this area with this joint venture with Abri.
“This is another major quality housing scheme for the region which, if granted planning, will bring quality, energy efficient homes to the area whilst also driving job creation, apprenticeships and economic growth over the next ten years.”
Andrew added: “The proposal is a dedicated program of investment, partnership working and housing delivery for the region.”
James Pennington, Director of Development at Abri, said: “We know that partnership working is essential if we are to deliver the homes people need. This joint venture with Lovell will provide people with a high quality, sustainable home and to be part of a community where everyone has the opportunity to belong, grow and thrive.”
Richard Summers, director at Boyle+Summers, added: “The objective is to create a safe and walkable development, work with the site landscape features to create a strong sense of place and identity as well as character through ensuring a high quality development.”
If granted full planning permission, , it is anticipated Lovell will start on the main build by Summer/Autumn 2022.