Barratt starts Durham resi

Old Durham Gate will bring 235 homes to the market to the Bent House Lane site, two miles from the city centre.

Consent was secured in May for the project, at a site where Barratt Homes and Miller are each delivering 235 homes, the full plot having had outline permission for up to 500 dwellings.

The housing giants bought the site last year.

Barratt is majoring on energy efficiency, claiming that every home will be designed to be up to 63% more energy-efficient, saving customers up to £2,200 each year on bills. Also, two-thirds of homes will be accessible and adaptable housing, with features like wider hallways and toilets convertible into wet-rooms.

As part of its agreement with Durham County Council, each housebuilder will contribute £1.2m

Barratt’s contribution will include £642,175 to upgrade secondary school capacity and £371,449 for primary school capacity. An additional £109,345 will be made for for open spaces and recreation facilities, as well as £12,394 for footpaths.

Healthcare facilities will be improved with a £113,505 contribution and the nearby Laburnum Avenue Community Centre will see £23,500 for improvements.

Neil Milburn, land and development director at Barratt Developments North East, said: “We’re proud that this will be the first development in Durham to feature multi-generational housing, giving families more choice over living with their younger and older members of the family under the same roof.

“Ideally situated within close proximity to Durham city centre, our development will have a fantastic selection of energy-efficient homes that are built to last and adapt to modern life.

“We would encourage anyone who would like to find out more information about the calibre of homes available to contact our very helpful sales team for more information.”

Old Durham Gate will include two, three, four and five bedroom homes.