Contractor breaks ground on 'milestone' scheme

A builder has hailed a “significant milestone” after kickstarting work on a £12.4 million retirement living scheme.

Esh Construction has officially broken ground on the Clarke Chapman Court estate, in Gateshead.

Based on the footprint of a former library, the venture – designed for people aged 55 and over – will include 43 apartments and 12 bungalows featuring one and two bedrooms.

Delivered alongside retirement living and extra care provider Housing 21, Esh bosses say the Sunderland Road scheme will create a “vibrant community for residents”.

Work is expected to be completed in spring 2027.

Laura Devaney, Esh Construction land and partnerships director, said: “This development is a great example of how collaboration and perseverance can deliver real value to communities.

“From the start, we recognised the potential of the site, not just to regenerate a disused area but to create a place where older people can live independently with the support they need.”

The development – which has already seen Esh Construction replace a children’s play area with a new activity hub – will also feature communal gardens, with properties set to be fitted with air source heat pumps and solar panels.

Nic Shortland, delivery development manager at Birmingham-based Housing 21, said: “We are excited to work with Esh Construction, and in partnership with Homes England, to deliver this scheme.

“It will regenerate the community and provide much-needed affordable retirement living properties.”

Councillor Chris Buckley, Gateshead Council cabinet member for housing, added: “Clarke Chapman Court represents so much more than new housing – it’s an investment in our older residents.

“We are creating a place where people can feel proud to live.”

Esh Construction brought the site forward through its land-led development operation, which sources spaces before conducting technical, design and construction assessments to create affordable homes alongside registered providers. 

It has worked with Edwards Architecture, Portland Consulting Engineers, Primas Law and Humphrey M&E Consultants to deliver Clarke Chapman Court.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →