Housing scheme welcomed by local MP

A local MP has visited a Northumberland housing scheme delivering dozens of “much-needed” affordable homes.

Hexham MP Joe Morris recently travelled to Bellingham to view the construction of 63 homes by Karbon Homes, in partnership with Esh Construction.

The Pennine Meadows development includes a mix of bungalows, family houses and apartments, with 21 available for affordable rent and 22 through schemes such as Shared Ownership and Rent to Buy. 

It also includes 20 care-ready supported apartments for over 55s.

Mr Morris said: “I welcome this important development in Bellingham, which will provide much-needed affordable housing and help tackle the current housing crisis in our constituency.  

“It was particularly encouraging to hear that priority is being given to local residents, ensuring people from Bellingham and the surrounding parishes have the opportunity to remain in the place they call home. 

“Thank you to Karbon for having me on site to raise local concerns with them directly, I will always ensure that those developing here do so with the needs of local residents in mind.”

Paul Fiddaman, chief executive for the Karbon Group, added: “It was great to welcome Joe to the development for a first look at how these much-needed new homes are progressing. 

“With the Labour Government’s target to deliver 1.5 million affordable homes during its terms, we’re pleased to have Joe’s support of our ambitions for housing development in the county. 

“We’ve had lots of positive feedback from local residents on how the new homes are looking. 

“From first-time buyers to those looking to downsize, we’re confident this development will meet the needs of local people and provide affordable options.” 

All of the homes are being built to high energy standards, including air source heat pumps, solar panels and EV charging points, with timber frames and facades designed to complement the village’s character.

The project is part-funded through Karbon’s strategic partnership with Homes England and has received a grant from the North of Tyne Combined Authority via the Government’s Brownfield Housing Fund, supporting rural communities and homes for those with additional support needs.

Mark Binns, operations director at Esh Group, added: “Welcoming Joe Morris MP to Pennine Meadows was a great opportunity to showcase the progress being made on this important development. 

“Esh is proud to be delivering high-quality, sustainable homes that will provide real benefits to the community, helping to meet local housing needs both now and in the future. 

“Projects like this are vital in ensuring that rural communities have access to affordable, modern homes which allow people to stay, work and thrive in the places they call home.” 

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →