More than 300 homes to be constructed at former school

A major housing development at the former Western School site in Grimsby is a step closer, with the completion of a land agreement with housebuilder Keepmoat.

The developer will regenerate the 22.9 acre brownfield site, which will see a multi-million pound investment to create 318 properties, including one to four-bedroom houses, affordable housing and retirement dwellings.

The school was closed more than a decade ago due to falling numbers and an over provision of places.

Funding to progress the site was obtained through the Homes England Accelerated Construction Programme, enabling North East Lincolnshire Council to prepare the land and complete utility, preparation and access works.

This was followed by Keepmoat securing planning permission earlier this year, subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement.

The housebuilder is set to begin work this week to deliver the new homes. These will be launched in winter 2026, representing a £65m investment.

Ben Hindley, regional land and partnerships director at Keepmoat, Yorkshire East, said: “It’s always an exciting time for us when we’re able to commence construction on a new development, particularly when it leads to the provision of affordable housing to people who really need it.

“As one of the UK’s leading partnership housebuilders, building strong links with local authorities, communities and housing associations is crucial.

“We’re working with North East Lincolnshire Council and Ongo to develop the area and provide local people with a great place to live and work.

“The site is a great example of the public and private sectors working together, unlocking funding being obtained by the authority enabling the council to obtain outline planning permission and complete key infrastructure.”

Councillor Philip Jackson, leader of the council, said: “We want to boost the local economy, and provide good quality housing to do this – both for our existing population and for people who want to move to the area.

“For the good of the environment, using brownfield sites has to be our preference. The delivery of new and affordable homes, built in places that support sustainable growth of our communities is key.

“Alongside our plans for urban housing in the centre of Grimsby, this development will provide significant numbers of good quality, new accommodation in the borough for our residents.”