Plans submitted for 77-home Durham scheme

A North East housebuilder has submitted plans for a new residential development aimed at delivering energy-efficient homes in a County Durham village.

Banks Homes has applied to Durham County Council to build up to 77 properties on land to the south east of High Shincliffe, near the route of the Leamside Line. 

The proposed Whitwell Acres scheme would include a mix of family homes and bungalows, with 35 per cent designated as affordable housing.

All homes would feature air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points, supporting lower carbon living. 

The development also includes proposals for a sustainable urban drainage system pond and aims to deliver at least a ten per cent biodiversity net gain.

Contributions would be made towards local healthcare and education provision as part of the scheme.

Artist’s impression of Banks Homes’ proposed development at High Shincliffe

Banks Homes, part of the Banks Group, previously held community consultation events and expects the plans to be considered later this year. 

Kate Culverhouse, community relations manager at the Banks Group, said: “The sustainable, contemporary new homes that we’re looking to build at High Shincliffe would give more local people and families a greater opportunity to stay in the area while also delivering a substantial range of economic, social and environmental benefits.

“This site has excellent public and sustainable transport links with both Durham City and the surrounding area, while it is also close to essential services in High Shincliffe and Bowburn, and we’re confident that there will be strong demand for the new homes that we’re looking to build.

“We’re very pleased to have reached this landmark in the progression of our plans for Whitwell Acres and hope the members of the County Council’s planning committee will recognise their quality and suitability when they come to consider them later in the year.”

Subject to approval, construction could begin by summer 2028.

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