A HOMEBUILDER has won the rights for a huge housing scheme after the previous developer collapsed into administration.

House by Urban Splash was behind plans to build 228 homes at Grappenhall Heys, which were approved by Warrington Borough Council’s planning committee in June 2021.

But the joint venture entered administration in May 2022, and the site, located to the south of Curzon Drive, east of Lichfield Avenue and west of Stansfield Drive, had seen no activity since permission was granted.

In August last year, Homes England confirmed it was seeking to appoint a new developer which would require fresh planning permission.

Now, following a competitive tender process, Redrow has confirmed it has exchanged contracts with Homes England to progress the 30-acre scheme.

In the coming months, Redrow will consult with residents and key local stakeholders ahead of submitting a planning application later in the year.

The developer says the homes will meet a need for family housing in the area, offering a mix of one to five-bedroom properties, while providing 30 per cent affordable homes on site.

Jason Newton, managing director for Redrow North West, said: “We are pleased to have partnered with Homes England to progress plans for high-quality new homes in this sought after location.

Chester and District Standard: Impressions of how the site at Grappenhall Hays were proposed to look by previous developer House by Urban SplashImpressions of how the site at Grappenhall Hays were proposed to look by previous developer House by Urban Splash (Image: House)

“Our proposals will make a significant contribution towards meeting the area’s housing needs, including affordable homes and delivering a great place to live with open space for residents and the wider community to enjoy.

“In addition, the energy efficiency ratings on our properties will also be among the best on the new build market.”

Simon Herring, northern development director at Homes England, said: “Homes England is delighted to be working with Redrow on the development.

“We are looking forward to working with Redrow to bring forward a well-designed scheme providing high-quality homes that people need.

“Redrow’s proposals demonstrated a vibrant and successful place that we feel residents would be proud to call home, and we are excited to see these come to life.”

The proposals will include new play areas, footpath networks to connect to walking routes, open space and mature trees around its boundary.

All properties will feature air source heat pumps to provide heating and hot water, reducing homeowners’ energy use, plus underfloor heating to the ground floor in detached designs and EV charging points.

Subject to planning, it is hoped that construction work can begin in 2025, with the first homes going on sale later that year.