Sunderland reports sixth HIF completion
Two further projects are under way within the Housing Infrastructure Fund-backed suite of projects in the South Sunderland Growth Area.
Sunderland City Council has led the delivery of the HIF programme that will build the roads, connectivity and amenities needed to support more than 3,500 new homes planned to be delivered in Sunderland South Growth Area (SSGA) a neighbourhood that brings together new estates in Chapelgarth, Burdon Lane, Cherry Knowle and South Ryhope.
The HIF programme was launched by government in 2017, representing a £4.2bn investment into key infrastructure across the UK, enabling local authorities to lead programmes of transport and utilities connections to support new housing developments.
Sunderland successfully secured £25.4m, of which £20m was identified for the eight Sunderland-based projects, with the remainder going to works at Seaton Lane, Durham.
Highway network improvements have included completion of the Ryhope to Doxford link road, as well as highway improvements to City Way to alleviate anticipated pressures and potential congestion and improvements to the A19/A690 Junction.
Funding was also used to support school provision, including the extension of two existing primary schools – Benedict Biscop and St Paul’s – and supporting the development of the new Sunningdale School.
Works continue with the creation of increased capacity at the neighbouring secondary school, Farringdon Community Academy along with additional SEND provision at Mill Hill Primary School. Work on the two schools is due to be completed in time for the start of the new school year in September 2024.
Overall £37m has been invested into these projects.
Patrick Melia, chief executive of Sunderland City Council, said: “We’re pleased to have advanced these important projects that ensure the new homes we are building across the SSGA benefit from excellent connectivity and the right provision to deliver attractive neighbourhoods that are well served by excellent road links and school provision.
Patrick Melia said connectivity is key. Credit: via Creo
“Sunderland is a transforming city and our plans around housing are a key part of our vision. As we create more and better jobs and drive forward with plans that deliver better leisure amenity and build upon the city’s natural assets, we see more people being attracted to live here, and by building more and better homes, we can create a more vibrant, prosperous city. Delivering the right infrastructure to support these homes is key.”
Sunderland’s stated aim is to build 7,000 new homes by 2030: of these 1,200 homes already constructed.
Half of these will be within the SSGA, with more than 684 acres now unlocked for development, and schemes under delivery by housebuilders including David Wilson Homes, Story Homes, and Taylor Wimpey.
HIF project delivery has accelerated developments including the Potters Hill community where a final phase is now off and running, with Miller Homes starting the 165-home Blakeney Green, and Stonebridge 84 executive homes at Regency Place.
