The redevelopment of North Quay is stepping in the right direction thanks a funding boost from Homes England.
Homes England has agreed a £2.5million grant funding deal with Dorset Council. The funding has been awarded through the Government’s £450 million Local Authority Accelerated Construction (LAAC) programme.
The LAAC funding will help to develop the site of the former council building at North Quay. Works including site remediation and preparatory infrastructure will bring this site forward for much needed housing in an area of moderate unaffordability.
100 per cent affordable
Dorset Council and Magna Housing are working together to develop the site, which will include 111 new homes, 100 percent of which will be affordable.
The LAAC programme prioritises the use of modern methods of construction. Dorset Council have opted for a panellised construction method which will increase the pace of development.
Stephen Kinsella, Executive Director for Land at Homes England, said: “This funding will support Dorset Council to accelerate housing delivery by enabling them to prepare this site for development and bring forward the construction of new homes incorporating modern methods of construction.”
Exciting time for Weymouth
Cllr Gary Suttle, Dorset Council’s Economic Growth and Skills Portfolio Holder, said:
“We’re pleased that the development of North Quay is being supported by Homes England. Plans for the site are currently being developed with Magna Housing who have confirmed their continuing commitment to the project as well as future consultation.
“This development is a key part of wider regeneration taking place in Weymouth. It’s an exciting time for the area.”
Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset, said:
“Affordable homes are much needed in the area and this additional boost of £2.5 million is most welcome. A lot of work is going into regenerating the town, and this is another scheme that will replace the old with the new. There’s plenty more to do, but this is a step in the right direction.”
Demolition
An application for the demolition of the current building has now been submitted. If approved, the aim is to begin demolition works in the winter to complete these works by Spring 2020.
Desktop archaeological studies are currently taking place. These will inform future ‘in the ground’ archaeological investigations work once the building has been demolished.
To ensure safety while demolition takes place, it is likely that the council office car park will be closed during this period.
