DEAL SIGNED FOR DOZENS OF AFFORDABLE HOMES IN BRISTOL

The delivery of dozens of affordable homes at Berwick Green is a step closer, thanks to a deal between Sovereign Housing Association and Bellway.

Celebrating the exchange of contracts, this deal for phase one of the development will see 64 affordable properties provided for social rent or shared ownership.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues, most of the homes in this deal will be provided for social rent to help meet the growing demand for affordable housing.

When completed, 46 homes will be provided for social rent and 18 for shared ownership. The development will include a mix of one to four-bedroom homes with plenty of parking and green space.

With energy use and energy efficiency at the forefront of everyone’s minds, homes at the development are set to benefit from a higher sustainability specification too.

These upgrades, which include photovoltaic panels and flue gas heat exchangers, are underpinned by Sovereign’s commitment to create sustainable futures through its Homes and Place Standard. When installed, they will make the homes even more affordable to run for its future customers.

Berwick Green is one of many developments Sovereign is delivering in the wider Bristol region. The 61,000-home housing association has bold and ambitious plans for the entire region, with approximately 3,500 new homes already in the pipeline.

James Gibson, Regional Development Director at Sovereign said: “With many new social homes being built either for affordable rent or shared ownership, it’s hugely encouraging to be able to celebrate the exchange of contracts on a development which is primarily for social rent.

“Exchanging contracts is a milestone step forward for us and we’re looking forward to working with Bellway to provide these much-needed homes. Projects like this really showcase our commitment to deliver the type of housing we know is needed, even when faced with rising costs and inflationary pressures.”

Tim Lund, Sales Director for Bellway South West, said: “There is a considerable need for affordable housing in Bristol so exchanging contracts with Sovereign is a significant moment for the Berwick Green development and for the wider area.

“This deal will put the possibility of living in a high-quality new-build home within the reach of more people and we are looking forward to working with Sovereign to deliver these affordable properties.

“Berwick Green is a major development for Bellway and construction is progressing well. The project is helping to meet the demand for both private and affordable housing and we are proud of the impact it is having on the area.

“This includes the almost £8 million that Bellway is contributing to local services and infrastructure as part of the planning agreement for the developmen t.”

The 64 affordable homes are due to be handed over to residents between 2025 and 2028.