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Barratt chief executive visits Scotswood project

The chief executive of Britain’s largest housebuilder visited the North East to view progress at the region’s biggest housing-led regeneration project.

Mark Clare, CEO of Barratt Developments, met workers at The Rise in Scotswood, Newcastle, where the first of 1,800 homes are now under construction.

He said: “I’m very impressed at what I have seen today and proud that Barratt is involved in this landmark project, which is delivering much-needed new homes together with jobs and training opportunities.

“We took eight reservations over the weekend we opened the showhomes, which indicates the demand there is for new homes here.

“I know the site has stood empty for some time, so to see the first homes taking shape marks real progress. It’s the beginning of a new chapter for the area and we look forward to welcoming the first residents to this new part of Scotswood.”

The Rise is a £265 million joint venture being driven by the New Tyne West Development Company – a partnership between Newcastle City Council, Barratt Homes and Keepmoat Homes.

Over the next 15-18 years it is expected to grow to become a sustainable community of up to 1,800 eco-friendly homes. Development plans include a neighbourhood centre, retail and commercial space, parks and public areas.

On site Mr Clare met joiner Ian Rochester, from Bishop Auckland, who has worked in the housebuilding industry for 42 years, and apprentice joiner Taylor Robson, 16, from Forest Hall.

Taylor, who is seven months into a two-year apprenticeship with Barratt, said: “I’m at college on Mondays and the rest of the week on site. I’m really enjoying it – and I’m getting paid as well!

“The apprenticeship is really good and having a trade behind you can set you up for the rest of your life.”

The Barratt Group recently announced that it would recruit 1,100 apprentices, graduates and trainees across the UK over the next three years to ensure that it had access to the right skills. This is in addition to the total of 600 being recruited over this year and last.

Mr Clare said: “Britain badly needs more new homes and Barratt is playing its part to build them. The employment opportunities we are creating and the skills we are providing to young people will help continue to drive the recovery in the housing sector and the economy as a whole.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Barratt Homes North East .