360 new homes set for South Yorkshire site in £52m development

National housebuilder Keepmoat Homes has unveiled plans for the development after completing the purchase of a site off School Street, Thurnscoe, which will be developed in partnership with Homes England and Barnsley Council.

The site, situated within the Dearne Valley on the eastern outskirts of Barnsley, was previously owned by the council and will see 360 two, three, and four-bedroom homes created in the area – of which five per cent will be classified affordable housing.

Dan Crew, Keepmoat regional managing director, said: “As a local developer, with our head office in Yorkshire, this acquisition is a positive step for our ambitious growth plans in South Yorkshire and following the success of previous developments in the area, it’s a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our presence in the town and cement our relationship with Barnsley Council.

“The new homes are designed for both first-time buyers and those looking to up-size, as well as providing much-needed provision of more affordable homes.

“We are driven to make a big impact to the local area and aim to create a new community with open spaces and park facilities for everyone to enjoy.”

The £52m development represents the third phase of housing on the wider site.

Keepmoat said it highlighted its commitment to working with the council to “transform the area through the creation of high-quality, modern homes, public open spaces and a children’s play area”.

A spokesman said: “As part of Keepmoat’s ongoing commitment to the local community, Keepmoat has pledged to support local people and help generate opportunities in training and employment through the use of sub-contractors, work placements and educational visits to the site, which will be delivered throughout the lifetime of the project.”

The first homes will become available to purchase at the start of 2021 and the development will take about nine years to complete.

Keepmoat says more than 70 per cent of its customers are first-time buyers, with the average selling price of a Keepmoat home £161,000 – the average house price in England is £262,000, according to the Office for National Statistics’ latest UK House Price Index.