Transformation of brownfield site begins in Whetstone

Work to create 78 affordable homes for people in Leicestershire is well underway, after leading developer Lovell Partnerships marked its official start on site in Whetstone.

The scheme named The Villers previously known as Henson Park, is being delivered on behalf of Midlands housing provider, emh homes. When complete, it will consist of 78 two-, three- and four-bedroom homes for shared ownership and rent.

A redevelopment of a former brownfield site within the Whittle Estate, groundworks began at The Villers in April 2022 after industrial units were demolished and the site cleared.

The 39 homes earmarked for shared ownership are due to be released for sale in autumn 2022, and buyers could potentially be in their homes by Christmas when the build for the first phase of homes is completed in December 2022. The overall project is expected to be completed in October 2023.

Stuart Penn, regional managing director at Lovell Partnerships, said: “It’s great to see the progress being made since we started on site in Whetstone for this important development. Addressing the nation’s housing needs and demand for affordable homes remains a top priority for Lovell, and it’s great to be working alongside our partners at emh homes to make this a reality.”

Chris Jones, executive director of development at emh said: “We are delighted that work has started on this formerly disused site in Whetstone. This will not only create much needed, high quality, affordable homes for both rent and shared ownership, but will also breathe new life into the local area.

“We are grateful that our strong partnership with Lovell, Blaby District Council, and Homes England, enables us to build the right homes in places where people are proud to live.”

Growth continues for Lovell across the East Midlands region following the opening of its dedicated office in Derby’s Pride Park earlier this year, securing its commitment to a successful future working to meet the region’s housing needs.