Marley Tiles scheme moves into remediation phase 

Story Homes has started on site at its 60-home development near Ebchester in Northumberland.

The housebuilder gained approval for the redevelopment of the brownfield site in March, working with Lichfields on the application for a mix of four- to six-bedroom houses.

Located approximately 1km from Ebchester on the border of County Durham, the site has been unused since the former tile factory closed in 1998.

Previous housing plans have been submitted and refused, with the most recent being in 2018 for 105 homes.

The 17-acre site will now be known as Newlands Hurst and will have a focus on landscaping and biodiversity improvements, as well as sustainable design features such as EV charging points and low carbon heating systems.

Three zones will be created at the development: The Farm, The Village, and The Woodland, each with its own detailing and landscaping character.

Remediation works will continue throughout 2026.

As part of the S106, Story Homes will provide new bus stops along the B6309 to improve connections for surrounding villages, including Whittonstall, Dilston, and Slaley.

Amanda Stephenson, head of land at Story Homes North East, said: “The start of remediation work at the former Marley Tiles factory marks a key milestone in the regeneration of this site and the next step towards bringing much-needed new homes to the area.

“This is an important project for Story Homes and the North East region, representing both a significant investment and a long-term commitment to sustainable, high-quality development.

“We’re proud to be transforming a disused industrial site into a thriving new community that reflects the character of the local area while delivering meaningful economic and environmental benefits.”