A former brickworks site that has been derelict for decades will be given a new lease of life thanks to an intervention by Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
In the absence of private sector interest, the 10-acre plot at Biggins Wood was bought by the local authority in 2017 to help deliver much-needed affordable homes and employment space.
With the support of a central government grant, remediation work was undertaken to make the site ready for a development partner to take it forward.
It has now been sold to Wickhambreaux Developments Ltd, who will deliver 5,600sqm of commercial units. Orbit Homes, partnering with Chartway, will build the 77 new homes for social rent and shared ownership.
The homes will be all-electric and designed to minimise their environmental impact. The development will also include dedicated public open spaces across the site.
Once completed, the social rented homes will be made available for local people on the council housing list. No tenancy applications for the new homes are currently being taken.
Leader Cllr Jim Martin said: “This project has been made possible by a bold approach by the council to de-risk a derelict site with potential and make it more attractive to the private sector to develop.
“This scheme will benefit residents in many ways – 77 new affordable homes, new jobs and opportunities, and a capital receipt which will help fund other important projects being undertaken by the council.”
Oliver Jolley, Group Chief Development Officer at Chartway, added: “We are delighted to be working with Orbit Homes to deliver this much-needed development in Folkestone.
"The project not only aligns with our vision of creating sustainable communities but also reinforces our commitment to partnering with organisations that share our passion for delivering homes for everyone.”
Brian Nearney, Regional Managing Director at Orbit Homes, said: “Our partnership with Chartway represents a shared commitment to developing sustainably.
"This development will provide 77 much-needed affordable and energy efficient homes in a mix of tenures and we’re proud to be working with the local authority to support the local housing need.”
The site already has detailed planning permission for the homes and employment space. Construction is due to commence this February.