Finalised land deal means work has begun on dozens of affordable homes

Construction company Tolent has completed a land-led deal in partnership with Karbon Homes, which will see the building of 64 affordable houses in Thirsk, North Yorkshire.

The 2.07 hectare site was identified by the North East-based contractor with development partner Karbon Homes approached at a later stage to discuss the potential of owning stock in the area.

Karbon and Tolent, together with a team of architects and engineers, developed a masterplan for the site, culminating in an offer for the land. The site was later purchased by Karbon Homes and a construction contract was agreed with Tolent.

Groundworks have now begun at the site on Back Lane, in Sowerby, and the 64 houses will include a mix of two, three and four bedroom properties.

Harry Bell, development director at Tolent, said: “We are especially thrilled to work on this project as it feels more personal. We had been involved in this from the beginning and have had a grand vision for this development since the time we identified the land.”

Zoey Hawthorne, assistant director of development delivery at Karbon Homes, said: “It is a beautiful place to live and as a result, there is a high demand for the good quality housing options that this development will provide.

“We’ve designed a development that meets the needs of the local community, ensuring a mix of property types and sizes which provide options for a range of households and help create a mixed community. We hope local people will welcome these new homes.”

The project will also see the incorporation of additional pedestrian and cycle links to the east and west of the site to encourage alternate means of transport.

Louise Woof, planner at ELG Planning, added: “We are pleased to see this scheme coming to fruition after a drawn out planning process.

“It is great that the team managed to secure the right outcome for our clients Karbon Homes and Tolent. We look forward to seeing the development progress and deliver much needed affordable housing in the area.”

The site is set to be completed by the middle of 2024.