FROM BESPOKE RESIDENTIAL BUILDS TO AFFORDABLE HOMES:

HOW ONE SALFORD-BASED DEVELOPER IS TAKING THE LEAP INTO SOCIAL HOUSING WITH THE SUPPORT OF DTS DEVELOPMENT

When CEB Design and Build had the opportunity to develop three affordable housing schemes in Oldham and St. Helens they turned to DTS Development for its social housing expertise. Hear how that support has enabled this experienced developer to expand into a new market and why they think it’s an area of growth.

With over 12 years of experience in the design, planning and development of bespoke residential schemes and conversions, CEB Design and Build (formally part of CEB Services) are well established on the region’s property scene. With a reputation for being able to deliver an end-to-end development solution they are often approached through their network with sites that are not yet on the market. But when three potential affordable housing schemes came their way they knew they needed additional support, as Mike Cox managing director of CEB Design and Build explains:

“We’ve got a long history of delivering design, planning and development on sites across the North-West, but what we don’t have is that social housing insight, that’s where the integration with DTS Development is invaluable. The majority of housing associations are very selective in terms of location and specification and they also have a financial formula for developments that dictates the viability of a site. DTS’ experience and contacts have not only enabled us to navigate this, but they have also connected us with potential housing association partners which is something I think we would have really struggled with, had it not been for their support.”

DTS Development will be working with CEB Design and Build on all three schemes. The first in St. Helens is a perfect affordable homes site, suitable for around 30 units. There is no current planning permission on the site, although the developer has secured a lock agreement with the vendor. DTS have already identified and approached an interested housing association, so they will work with this potential partner to ensure the design and specification of the homes, as well as the layout of the overall scheme to ensure it meets their requirements ahead of planning. Once planning is secured DTS will continue to be involved in delivery to ultimately ensure the smooth transition of the properties from CEB to the affordable housing provider.

The other two schemes are located in Oldham. The first will be suitable for around 20 apartments and CEB currently have permission from the vendor to start demolition on this site. The second will be suitable for 12 -15 homes. Again DTS Development are working with CEB on the volume and specifications of these sites, in line with a potential affordable housing partner’s requirements.

CEB Design and Build see affordable housing as an area for growth, as Mike Cox explains:

“Our work with DTS as really opened my eyes about affordable housing and there is plenty of opportunity out there for developers looking to work with housing associations on schemes. This wouldn’t have happened without DTS’ support and expertise. Whilst we have experience as designers and builders, we don’t have the knowledge and experience to work with housing associations and at times it can get very complex.”

DTS Development provides an end-to-end solution for your property and development needs. With a vast amount of experience in affordable housing, the team work directly with both housing associations and developers on pre-contract, programme management and Section 106 sales or purchases. For more information on DTS services click here or call Laura for an informal chat on 07783 199980