A PROMINET figure in the region’s property market has launched a new venture.

Barry Miller, former managing director of Bellway North East, has acquired Hartlepool-based Seneca Homes in a seven-figure deal.

The buy-out, which was completed earlier this month, will lead to the relaunch of Seneca Homes, which sponsers Hartlepool United Football CLub, as Wynyard Homes,

Speaking about the deal, Mr Miller said he bid for the company after selling Seneca Homes land for home building.

“Seneca Homes wanted to buy a site I had under option so when I initially agreed the sale I also agreed to help them secure planning approval.

“Afterwards, I became involved further in a consultancy role helping the Seneca Board to manage other sites and acquire new sites.

“It became apparent after a time that housing wasn’t their main focus as their business interests and priorities lie elsewhere in waste management and environmental matters; so, I decided to make an offer for the company.”

Mr Miller said work has already begun on a project at Liberty Park in Hartlepool is expected to be completed by 2018.

Wynyard Homes is also expected to announce work on new sites in Sunderland, Hartlepool and Richmond, North Yorkshire, in 2017.

Mr Miller said he was looking for the Wynyard brand to have a “fresh identity”.

“Wynyard Homes will concentrate on quality building and specifications, and design innovation in all our homes.

“We also plan to focus on smaller and more specialist sites - that is not to say all our houses will be luxury 4-5 bedroom homes; smaller homes can be just as aspirational when designed right.”

Mr Miller, who worked for Bellway for 13 years and has also carried out work for other house builders including Persimmon, has more than 30 years’ experience at a senior level in housing in the region.

“I am excited about what the future holds for Wynyard Homes - we want to differentiate our homes from the mainstream to make our mark in the region and grow into a recognised quality, regional householder.

“I would anticipate we’d be completing 150 units a year within four years.”