English Partnerships has selected Redrow Homes from a shortlist of five bidders to regenerate the 18-acre South Yard Enclave in Devonport, Plymouth.
A mixed-use scheme with more than 450 new homes, retail, office and community facilities is planned for the site which was purchased by the national development agency from the Ministry of Defence last year.
Development of the area, closed to the public for security reasons since the Second World War, includes the phased removal of high security walls that have separated the Enclave from the Devonport community enabling the whole area to be reunited.
Steve Jackson, Senior Regeneration Manager for English Partnerships said that the development would “put the heart back into Devonport”.
He added, “This result has been achieved in less than six months thanks to the excellent co-operation between government and local agencies to transform this piece of redundant public sector land and create a catalyst for wider regeneration in Devonport.”
Redrow is expected to sign a full development agreement by mid-March to develop the scheme over the next eight to ten years.
A detailed planning application is likely to be submitted in the autumn following the four to five month consultation period.
Demolition work could begin later this year followed by building work in early 2007, subject to planning consent.
The Enclave has outline consent for 463 new homes, of these 75% will be market sale, including 15% for first time buyers, and a portion for rent and shared ownership.
An existing historic market hall building will be retained as part of the plans that also include a new public square.
Devonport has been recognised by government as an area suffering from high levels of deprivation and is included within its New Deal for Communities (NDC) programme.
GVA Grimley advised English Partnerships.
References: EGi News 01/02/06
