The partnership’s first scheme is the redevelopment of the abandoned Bayer industrial complex in West Timperley, a 1.4-hectare plot that has been derelict for many years. Under the plan, Wates will build 33 family homes and 29 apartments, accessible via a newly built road bridge over the A56.
Phase one of the scheme, called Stonebrook, will be completed in summer 2017 and will be marketed under the Laurus Homes brand.
Trafford Housing and Wates will also be working together to deliver a wide range of local business, training and employment opportunities linked to the Stonebrook scheme. These will include the creation of job opportunities, apprenticeships and work experience placements, plus a ‘Building Futures’ programme offering local jobseekers the chance to gain basic construction skills.
There will also be a specific procurement strategy to encourage local businesses and social enterprises to bid for work linked to the development.
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Trafford Housing Trust deputy chief executive Larry Gold said: “We’ve worked closely with Wates Living Space Homes on a number of major projects over recent years and this new joint venture will build on that experience. It also reflects our progressive, partnership approach to housebuilding; working with commercial developers and others to help accelerate the pace of new home delivery in Trafford and beyond.
“By embracing a profit-for-purpose approach to development we can also help tackle the issue of local housing need while still fulfilling our primary role as a champion of social justice at grass roots level.”
Joanne Jamieson, managing director of Wates Living Space Homes, said: “Our business has a long-established reputation in sourcing innovative means to address the evolving needs of the housing sector. Through our strategic development partnerships with housing associations and local authorities, we bring 119 years of house building expertise to address the UK’s urgent need to deliver more homes for affordable rent and sale.
“Our joint venture with Trafford Housing Trust will be a partnership that will serve to accommodate the rising demand for high-quality and efficient homes, whilst also providing a vital catalyst to unlock further regeneration.”
Formation of the joint venture follows Trafford Housing Trust’s recent announcement of a similar partnership to develop new homes with L&Q, the UK’s largest housing association.
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