Stonewater has started work on a new rural development of 75 affordable homes in Meriden, Solihull.
The scheme is being built in partnership with Keon Homes, Thornton Firkin and Solihull Borough Council and is supported by £5.4m funding from Homes England.
The project also marks the first time that Stonewater has partnered with Keon Homes on a new housing scheme, highlighting the social housing provider’s commitment to supporting SME contractors.
The development, which is located off Maxstoke Lane in the village, will consist of 22 one-bedroom maisonettes, including four accessible apartments, 10 townhouses and five duplex apartments. There will also be a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom houses and bungalows.
All the homes will be built to modern energy-efficient standards, achieving EPC ratings of B or above. Each home will be fitted with an air source heat pump to lower running costs and customers will also benefit from private gardens and shared outdoor spaces, as well as having EV charging parking facilities.
Of the 75 homes, 22 will be available for social rent, 23 for affordable rent, 24 for shared ownership and six for rent to buy.
Matthew Crucefix, director of development at Stonewater, said: “It’s great to see work begin on this development after a long journey through planning. With a housing crisis that is challenging many rural communities, these homes will help tackle the housing shortage in Meriden and enable customers to stay in the community they love.
“The scope of tenures and home sizes means there will be a range of homes to meet customer needs. The sustainability features also mean that customers will see lower utility bills, which is vital in the current economic climate.”
As part of the work, Keon Homes will be providing a range of apprenticeships and training opportunities through its supply chain, supporting young people into construction careers.
Richard Williams, managing director at Keon Homes, added: “Keon Homes is delighted to be working with Stonewater on our first scheme together, which will provide 75 much-needed energy-efficient, affordable homes in a rural area.”
“We’re passionate about developing the next generation of construction talent and this scheme will allow us to take on new apprentices directly and across our predominantly Midlands-based supply chain. Our approach is always to build strong partnerships with our clients, and we hope that this project will be the first of many for Stonewater.”
The development will also see wider community benefits, including landscaped areas and a pond, tree planting and a public art feature, which will be inspired by Meriden’s heritage.
The design of the public art will be linked to the rich and varied heritage of the local community, the area’s historical events and stories.
A coffee morning to discuss the public art concept has already been held at Stonewater’s The Firs retirement living scheme, which is situated nearby. The Maxstoke Lane is scheduled for completion in 2027.
Main image: Representatives from Stonewater and Keon Homes visit the Meriden site in Solihull
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