Work has officially started on the regeneration of Yorke Drive in Newark, marking a major milestone for residents and the wider community.
Newark and Sherwood District Council and its development partner, Compendium Living, marked the start on site alongside residents, councillors and project partners at a special event yesterday (Monday 26 October).
Compendium Living was established in 2005 as a 50/50 joint venture between Lovell Partnerships and The Riverside Group, bringing together the expertise and strengths of both organisations to deliver large-scale regeneration and placemaking projects that create homes and support sustainable communities.
The major, long-term project will transform the neighbourhood through new homes, improved sports and recreation facilities, better green spaces and safer, more welcoming connections with surrounding areas.
A total of 207 homes are planned across the scheme, including a mix of social and private homes in a range of sizes. The first phase includes improvements to the playing fields, a new sports pavilion and new homes for existing residents moving as a result of the scheme.
The plans will also create a new entrance from Lincoln Road, improve links with the surrounding area, provide electric vehicle charging points and deliver energy efficient homes.
Councillor Lee Brazier, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said:
This is an important moment for residents on Yorke Drive. After years of planning, consultation and determination, residents can now see work beginning on the ground.
This regeneration is about much more than buildings. It is about creating a safer, greener and better-connected neighbourhood, with good-quality homes and facilities that local people can enjoy for generations. I want to thank residents for their patience, honesty and involvement, which have helped shape the plans and will remain central as the work progresses.
Simon Medler, Managing Director at Compendium Living, said:
We are proud to be working with Newark and Sherwood District Council and the local community to bring forward this ambitious regeneration. Reaching the start-on-site milestone reflects the commitment and hard work of everyone involved.
Our focus now is on delivering high-quality homes and public spaces that meet the needs of residents and create a lasting, positive legacy for Yorke Drive. We will work carefully throughout construction, keeping the community informed and doing all we can to minimise disruption.
Councillor Debbie Darby, Bridge ward member, said:
Residents have waited a long time to see this work begin. This project is about their homes, their neighbours and the places they use every day, so it is vital that the community continues to be involved throughout delivery.
Today is a milestone worth celebrating, but the focus must remain on steady progress, clear information and making sure residents know where to get support. I look forward to seeing the benefits take shape.
The regeneration will be delivered in phases. Initial activity will include securing the site and demolishing the pavilion, four properties and garages, with construction of the first new homes expected to follow in the new year.
In November 2025, the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) allocated an additional £1 million to the project to significantly boost energy efficiency measures for the estate's new affordable homes. This extra funding, subject to contracts and funding approval, ensures the integration of solar panels and battery storage alongside pre-planned air source heat pumps to help lower running costs for future residents.
The Council and Compendium Living will continue to provide regular updates as work progresses and will continue to listen to residents, respond to concerns and manage disruption wherever possible.
