Seven-figure deal backs rural housing scheme

A Northumberland housing development is moving forward after securing a seven-figure investment to support the delivery of high-specification family homes.

Brooksfield, in the village of Melkridge in the Tyne Valley, is being developed by North East property developer Signal Construction, led by managing director Robbie Kalbraier.

Signal’s sister company, St. James’ Central, has secured the funding from the North East Property Fund, managed by FW Capital and backed by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.

The development will provide a collection of four and five-bedroom homes designed to combine traditional rural character with energy-efficient technology.

Stone and slate exteriors will be complemented by Structural Insulated Panels, air source heat pumps and electric vehicle chargers, with solar panels available as an option.

Homes will also feature spacious living areas and private gardens, with Signal Construction responsible for delivering the scheme.

Its name reflects the history of the site, recognising the Brooks family, who owned the land for generations.

Robbie Kalbraier, managing director of Signal Construction, said: “With magnificent views across the Tyne Valley and generous plot sizes, Melkridge is a unique village rich in heritage. 

“Our primary goal with Brooksfield was to design a unique scheme that seamlessly blends into its historic surroundings while delivering high-performance homes built for modern family life. 

“With the foundations in place and bricklayers on site we are on track to complete the development in summer 2027. 

“The support from Chris Dixon, Lesley Telford and everyone at FW Capital has been brilliant; we are delighted to be working with them all and would highly recommend the North East Property Fund.”

The £20 million North East Property Fund provides short-term finance to small and medium-sized construction and property development companies.

Loans ranging from £250,000 to £2 million are available for residential and non-speculative commercial developments across Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and County Durham.

The fund aims to address gaps in development finance while helping unlock new property schemes across the region.

Lesley Telford, senior investment executive at FW Capital, added: “This project is a great example of an investment that will support the rural village of Melkridge. 

“It aligns perfectly with the investment vision of the North East Property Fund because it supports supporting high-quality, sustainable residential developments that add genuine value to local communities. 

“Robbie and his team have delivered a standout development that respects local heritage through traditional stone exteriors while embedding sustainable, eco-friendly features throughout. 

“We look forward to seeing this exciting development take shape in the Tyne Valley.”

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