Work begins on hundreds of homes at former mine site

Work to build about 500 homes has started at Skelton Gate, in the Aire Valley near Leeds.

Templegate Developments Limited, a joint venture partnership of Evans Property Group and Keyland Developments, is preparing the way for the next phase of its new community.

Appointed contractor Hall Construction Services Limited is on site delivering phase two of the scheme, which is funded by a £20m Home Building Fund loan from Homes England.

The 170-acre former open cast colliery site, to the east of Junction 45 of the M1, has planning permission for 1,800 new homes, a primary and secondary school, public open space, a local centre and a convenience store, as well as associated infrastructure.

Earlier this year it was confirmed the joint venture partnership had agreed terms of sale with Avant Homes and Evans Homes for the acquisition of 27 acres forming phase one of Skelton Gate, which will enable delivery of a combined 415 homes.

Both housebuilders plan to start on site in the New Year, subject to planning.

The Homes England loan will fund the delivery of infrastructure and ground preparation works for all phases.

These works will facilitate the development of the entire scheme, which will also enable creation of more than 500 construction and operational jobs.

Peter Garrett, managing director of Keyland Developments, said: “It is exciting to be back on-site delivering one of Leeds City Region’s most significant regeneration schemes.

“Skelton Gate has received great support from the city council and with the continued support of Homes England we have commenced works that will pave the way for much needed new homes.”

Richard Bean, portfolio director at Evans Property Group, said: “We’re pleased to have re-appointed Hall Construction to deliver the ground works and infrastructure on the second phase to create serviced development platforms on 27 acres.

“The close collaboration between public and private sector has enabled the delivery of this game-changing development and we are proud to be involved in the significant housing delivery.”

Tim Armitage, senior portfolio manager at Homes England, added: “Following successful completion of the phase one works it is fantastic to see phase two now start, which will ultimately deliver more new homes at this strategic site.”