Green light for new homes in Rotherham

Approval has been granted for 311 new homes in the West Melton area of Rotherham.

The proposals submitted by 5-star housebuilder Persimmon will see significant investment in the local area alongside houses for local families, first-time buyers, and downsizers.

With construction to start in the coming weeks, the new development located off Barnsley Road in West Melton will provide a mix of two to five-bedroom houses.

58 of the 311 new homes will be transferred to a housing association or local authority.

A further 20 properties will be sold via the First Homes initiative where eligible first-time buyers can get a discount of at least 30% off the price of a new home.

Persimmon has pledged financial contributions towards various local amenities, including improvements to local bus shelters serving the community and maintaining existing public play areas at West Melton Park and Bierlow Park.

Significant funding will also be made to improve local infrastructure and local amenities including education, transport and sports provision.

A total of £1.05 million will be contributed by Persimmon with over £600,000 going to local schools.

Residents will also benefit from over 2.5 hectares of public open space and a new comprehensive footpath network to encourage active travel.

All homes on the development will adhere to new Part L building regulations for improved energy efficiency with solar panel technology on the new homes.

Mark Beevers, Senior Land and Planning Manager for Persimmon South Yorkshire said: “We’re delighted that this development has taken another significant step forward.

“These exciting plans will deliver a wealth of benefits to the local community in addition to much needed, high quality new housing for local families, first-time buyers and downsizers who otherwise might struggle to get on the housing ladder.”