Partner Article

Plans approved for £20 million County Durham regeneration scheme

Planning approval has paved the way for believe housing to deliver 90 affordable homes, bringing forward the next phase of a long-term regeneration scheme in County Durham. 

The development, worth more than £20 million, will transform a prominent site in the centre of Brandon, near Durham City, with a mix of modern, energy-efficient homes and improved open spaces. 

Durham County Council unanimously approved the not-for-profit housing association’s plans on Tuesday, 14 July 2026.

This marks a significant milestone in a regeneration project years in the making for believe housing, which is one of the largest social housing providers and businesses in the northeast of England with more than 18,000 homes and 650 employees.

The Brandon project has so far included extensive engagement with the community, the removal of homes that no longer met customers’ needs and the regeneration of a neighbouring derelict pub site with 12 off-gas homes. 

Together, these improvements are helping to create a healthier, more attractive neighbourhood and deliver lasting benefits for existing and future residents.

Kate Abson, director of assets and development at believe housing, said: "This approval marks an important milestone in our long-term commitment to Brandon. 

"We've worked closely with residents, partners and stakeholders throughout that journey to help shape proposals that help to meet local housing needs and support Brandon's future.

"The new homes will be high quality and energy efficient, affordable to run and designed to meet a range of needs and aspirations, from people who need an accessible home to growing families.  

“Alongside new green spaces and better connections across the area, the development will help create a healthy, sustainable neighbourhood for existing and future residents.

"We're excited to bring these plans to life and continue our investment in the area." 

The approved plans will see 10 bungalows and 80 houses built for social rent, shared ownership and Rent to Buy, with a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes. 

The scheme will regenerate a 3.8-hectare site previously occupied by flats and bungalows at Silver Courts, Vicarage Flats, Rowan Lea and Red Firs. Customers were supported to move and compensated before the homes were demolished. 

The development will make the most of its sustainable central location, with shops, schools, healthcare services and public transport all within easy reach. 

Each home will have its own private garden and parking, along with energy-efficient features including air source heat pumps, electric vehicle charging points and, where appropriate, solar panels. 

The homes will be spacious and designed to adapt to residents' changing needs. 

The plan also includes new green spaces, landscaping and enhanced wildlife habitats, including bird and bat boxes and new hedgerows.  

Improved walking routes, upgrades to an existing bus stop and the addition of a new bus stop will help residents travel around the local area. 

Construction could begin before the end of the 2026-27 financial year, subject to Homes England funding being secured.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Catherine Priestley .