‘Flagship scheme’ enters next build phase

A housing scheme is moving into its next phase.

Esh Construction has started work on two new phases at its “flagship” Seaham Garden Village development, in east Durham, bringing the number of affordable homes underway to more than 200. 

Working with North East-based social housing provider Karbon Homes, Bowburn-headquartered Esh will deliver 750 affordable homes over the coming years at the 78-hectare coastal site, which will eventually feature 1500 homes.

So far, 72 homes in phase one have reached roof height, while a further 141 homes are being delivered across phases two and three.

Available through social rent, affordable rent and rent to buy, the homes include a mix of flats and family houses.

The first four showhomes are set to open later this summer, with 12 properties expected to be handed over to Karbon Homes in the coming months. 

Mark Binns, operations director at Esh Construction, said: “We’re proud of the progress we have made on site since we broke ground 12 months ago. 

“Working closely with Karbon Homes, we are not just constructing houses but developing a forward-thinking and community-focused development.

“Bringing together innovation and sustainability, Seaham Garden Village will set a benchmark for residential development.”

A key feature of the scheme is its use of an ultra-low carbon mine water heating network, part of a pioneering project led by Durham County Council, Karbon Homes and the Mining Remediation Authority that draws heat from water already pumped from disused coal mines, significantly reducing the environmental impact.

Combined with solar panels and energy-efficient design, the homes aim to achieve near net-zero standards.

Zoey Hawthorne, assistant director of development delivery at Karbon Homes, added: “It’s great to see the first phase of new homes at Seaham taking shape, and we look forward to welcoming our first residents this summer. 

“Esh has been a fantastic construction partner, and we’re pleased to be continuing to work with the team.

“As our flagship scheme, Seaham Garden Village is an excellent example of what collaborative working can achieve, utilising new technologies to deliver homes of the future, available for both rent and affordable home ownership.”

Future plans for the garden village include a new school, local shops, healthcare provision and more than three miles of green walking and cycling routes. 

Alongside the affordable housing scheme, another 750 homes are being developed by national housebuilders Taylor Wimpey and Miller Homes for outright sale.

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