Construction starts on brownfield site for new homes

Construction has kicked off on the site of the former Aelfgar School in Rugeley, where housing specialist Lovell is set to deliver 58 homes.

The brownfield site, which was demolished in 2016, will be transformed into a new community called Farrier’s Fold, featuring a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes.

The project will include 29 homes for open market sale and 29 affordable homes.

In partnership with Cannock Chase Council, the development will include some of the first homes built to Future Homes Standards, with the project expected to be completed by 2026.

Stuart Penn, regional managing director at Lovell said: “This project exemplifies the potential of transforming neglected land into a vibrant community, with high-quality homes close to vital amenities. The site is expected to be hugely popular and, being 50% affordable, offers more options to buyers who want to live here.

“With 215,000 new homes needed by 2031 to support growth across the West Midlands, it’s great to see work underway to deliver this scheme. Farrier’s Fold also marks our first joint venture in home construction with Cannock Chase Council. Having collaborated on successful regeneration projects, we are proud to be strengthening this partnership and supporting more housing supply to meet the ambitious targets set for the region.”

Homes will be built in a range of house types including detached, semi-detached and terraced properties to support more buyer choice.

Councillor Sue Thornley, portfolio leader for Housing and Corporate Assets said: “There is a significant demand for affordable housing in the district. It’s fantastic to see a previously unused site being transformed to create more homes for local residents. These homes will be the first to meet the Future Homes Standard, ensuring lower living costs for our tenants.”