Meeting Rachel Thompson, the community liaison officer for Avant Homes, was an enlightening experience. Her enthusiasm and dedication to the forthcoming Acklam development were palpable. As a seasoned journalist, I have chronicled numerous construction projects, but this one stood out. It transcended mere bricks and mortar, delving into the realms of community, environment, and future-forward thinking.
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Rachel welcomed me with a warm smile at a local café, situated a short distance from the now-demolished St David’s Catholic School. “This project is very close to our hearts,” she began passionately. “We’re not just building houses; we’re creating homes and a community.” The 15-acre site at St David’s Way has long been a focal point of discussion and controversy. Initially approved in 2021, the project faced a significant setback when Natural England introduced nutrient neutrality regulations the following year. These rules, aimed at safeguarding local water bodies from nutrient pollution, necessitated developers to demonstrate that their projects would not harm the environment.
“It was a challenging time for us,” Rachel admitted. “We had to revisit our plans and devise a solution that complied with the strict requirements. It wasn’t easy, but our commitment to making it work never wavered.” This perseverance bore fruit when Middlesbrough Council recently approved the £38 million scheme. The development, aptly named ‘The Avenue’, will encompass 139 new homes, featuring a blend of two, three, and four-bedroom houses, alongside five three-bedroom bungalows. The assortment of terraced, semi-detached, and detached properties is designed to cater to diverse family needs and preferences. “We wanted to ensure there was something for everyone,” Rachel noted. “Whether you’re a young couple, a growing family, or someone looking to downsize, we have designed homes that are practical, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.”
A distinctive feature of this development is its proximity to the historic Avenue of Trees. Rachel emphasised the importance of preserving the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. “We’ve collaborated closely with Historic England and local conservation officers to ensure our plans respect and enhance the existing environment,” she explained. None of the trees within the Avenue of Trees will be removed, and the existing hedgerow will be strengthened to maintain the area’s character and appearance.
Despite the positive aspects, the development has not been without its detractors. Nearby residents have raised concerns about the density of the development, potential traffic issues on Hall Drive, and the impact on wildlife and privacy. Rachel acknowledged these objections and assured me that they were taken seriously. “Our planning team has worked diligently to address these concerns,” she said. For instance, there will be a minimum of 21 metres between the rear elevation of the new homes and existing properties, and 14 metres between side elevations. This ensures no significant impact in terms of overbearing or loss of light.
Avant Homes has also pledged a planning contribution of £600,000, which will be allocated towards various community benefits. These include contributions to three playing fields, two real-time bus stops, and off-site affordable housing. “We believe in giving back to the community,” Rachel emphasised. “These contributions are part of our commitment to making Acklam a better place for everyone.”
Discussing the project timeline, Rachel informed me that construction is set to commence this month, with the first homes released for sale in November. A show home is scheduled to open in May 2025, and the inaugural residents are expected to move in that year. “It’s an exciting time,” she said with a smile. “We can’t wait to see the first families move into their new homes and start creating memories.”
Before concluding our conversation, I asked Rachel what she hoped the community would gain from this development. After a moment of reflection, she responded, “More than just houses, we’re building a community. We hope to create a vibrant, sustainable, and connected neighbourhood where people feel proud to live. It’s about creating a space where people can thrive.”
As I left the café, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of optimism. The Avenue project in Acklam is not without its challenges, but with dedication, collaboration, and a commitment to the community, it promises to be a significant and positive addition to the area. I eagerly anticipate returning in a few years to witness how this vision has materialised.
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