DurhamGate has unveiled plans to create much needed new homes and expand the ‘Green Space’, which runs through the growing County Durham community.
A hybrid planning application has been submitted to Durham County Council for outline consent for up to 96 new homes and landscaping as well as a detailed consent sought for the next phase of green parkland.
The addition of the new homes, which will be a mix of two, three and four-bedroom houses, will enhance the already well-established residential community at DurhamGate.
Already with more than 680 homes, DurhamGate has quickly become one of County Durham’s most vibrant communities, which has attracted in the region of £100m of investment.
The homes will be surrounded by architecturally designed landscaping and woodland areas, which alongside the extended open space will not only add to the aesthetics of the new development but will also enhance biodiversity at the location and support local wildlife.
The proposal includes the creation of the second phase of the green park, which is a communal amenity for residents and visitors to DurhamGate. Covering just under an acre, the additional green space will feature walking trails, seating areas and woodland play areas.
It will complement the first phase which was established in 2017 and also features walking and fitness trails, as well as barbeque and picnic areas, table tennis tables and a bike trail.
The extended green park will also sit alongside Livin’s current development of 39 bungalows, which are currently in construction and set to be ready for occupation this year. These bungalows will be available for affordable rent to over 55’s and people with disabilities, the area will provide an additional community garden and a flexible space for activities and events.
The new homes and landscaped areas have been designed by Newcastle-based architects Ergo Projects Ltd and Colour Urban Design Ltd. The planning application has been prepared and submitted by Newcastle-based DPP Planning.
Dean Cook, managing director of Arlington Real Estate, which is behind the DurhamGate regeneration project, said: “These proposals are part of the continuing growth of DurhamGate, creating additional, much needed new homes for the region and expanding our green spaces, which have become a focal point for our community.”
“Families at DurhamGate really enjoy the green spaces, which have the perfect balance of tranquillity and activity with places to relax or exercise. It is one of the benefits of living at DurhamGate, which continues to be a very popular place to live, which is why we are planning to deliver more houses to meet area and regional demand.”
Nicola Crowley, Principal Planner at DPP, said: “Having worked with Arlington Real Estate throughout the development of DurhamGate, we’re really pleased to support with the application for the next stage of the masterplan. It has seen the transformation from an industrial site into a vibrant, mixed-use development that has generated a brilliant community and a welcome addition to County Durham’s housing requirements.”
Adrian Reay, Director of Ergo Projects, said: “The new homes will be in keeping with the style and quality that has become synonymous with DurhamGate as an attractive place to live. The landscaping around the new homes will provide a positive impact for DurhamGate, creating strong west-east links across the site, connecting the existing ‘Green Spine’ areas, giving residents and visitors a mix of impressive green spaces and woodland that will strengthen the community and look stunning all year round.”