Lovell JV starts on Newark regeneration scheme
Compendium Living will build 207 houses at Yorke Drive in Notttinghamshire, including a mix of social and private homes.
Outline proposals for the regeneration of the 1960s-era Yorke Drive Estate in Newark were put forward in 2018, with detailed proposals finally approved in February last year.
The first phase of the 28-acre scheme includes improvements to playing fields, a sports pavilion and homes for existing residents who are moving as a result of the development, which includes the demolition of 130 dwellings on the 320-home estate.
The existing sports pavilion will also be knocked down, alongside a row of garages, to make way for the scheme.
Formed in 2005, Compendium is a joint venture between Lovell and social housing provider, The Riverside Group.
“Reaching the start-on-site milestone reflects the commitment and hard work of everyone involved,” said Simon Medler, managing director at Compendium Living.
“Our focus now is on delivering high-quality homes and public spaces that meet the needs of residents and create a lasting, positive legacy for Yorke Drive. We will work carefully throughout construction, keeping the community informed and doing all we can to minimise disruption.”
Last year, the scheme received a £1m boost from the East Midlands combined authority, intended to boost energy efficiency at affordable homes on the development.
The extra funding will see solar panels and battery storage integrated alongside air source heat pumps, to help lower running costs for future residents.
Cllr Lee Brazier, portfolio holder for housing at Newark and Sherwood council described the start of works at Yorke Drive as an “important moment for residents.”
“This regeneration is about much more than buildings,” he said.
“It is about creating a safer, greener and better-connected neighbourhood, with good-quality homes and facilities that local people can enjoy for generations. I want to thank residents for their patience, honesty and involvement, which have helped shape the plans and will remain central as the work progresses.”
