District Council to invest in family-sized bungalows to help meet housing demand

The land identified for this initiative, located off Bowbridge Road, was originally purchased in May 2022 and partially developed into a car park serving the nearby hospital. With the car park now complete and operational, the remaining two-thirds of the site make the perfect location for several homes to be built.

Following full support from the Strategic Housing Group, a thorough feasibility study was conducted. In 2024, planning approval was granted for the construction of five spacious, accessible 3 and 4-bedroom bungalows, in response local social housing need that cannot be addressed through existing provision.

Councillor Lee Brazier, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Not only in Newark and Sherwood but across the country there is an increasing demand for housing, particularly adapted homes. Like many councils, we have an extensive list of residents waiting for housing and these homes will be ideal for families and those who need level-access.

“This is a perfect example of where we’ve best utilised our land to make a positive impact in the community. Land is in very short supply in the area, so it’s good to show that where we do own land, we make the best use of it to support those most in need.”

This scheme will help address the Council’s current caseload of complex housing needs and adapted property requirements. It forms part of the sixth phase of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) new build development programme, previously approved by Cabinet in October 2023, and will contribute to the overall target of 50 new properties for the district by Autumn 2026.

With the contractor already in place, construction is scheduled to start on site before Christmas 2025. Completion is anticipated by Spring 2026, pending approval of the land transfer.

The site is ideally positioned near essential amenities, including the hospital, shops, and public transport links, making it a prime location for accessible, family homes.

The District Council is also developing more social rented homes across the district. Homes will benefit from electric heating systems with solar panels, battery storage, water heat recovery systems where baths are fitted and EV chargers.