Duchy Homes is to build 179 homes south of Sunderland, after buying a 17-acre plot.

The housebuilder completed on land close to Chapelgarth last month, paving the way for work to start on the latest tranche of homes at Potters Hill, a key part of the South Sunderland Growth Area being led by Sunderland City Council.

Potters Hill – which is being brought to the market by the council as master developer of the 700 home site - comprises a range of schemes by private housebuilders to deliver high quality homes for families.

Across the whole site, when it is fully developed, there will be 13.5 hectares of natural green space – the equivalent in area to over 18.2 full size football pitches.

Duchy Homes will deliver two, three, four and five bedroom properties that will complement the existing homes by both Miller and Story Homes.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, dynamic city cabinet member at Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome Duchy Homes to Sunderland, and they are now able to progress with plans to add to the community that is taking shape at Potters Hill.

“Having a blended scheme - led by a range of private housebuilders each offering something to the market – means we are delivering a broad range of high-quality homes to suit families.

"The product is a really vibrant community in Sunderland South, with green spaces and focal points built in to ensure Potters Hill is a fantastic place to live.”

Duchy Homes’ Chief Executive Officer, John Barnes, said: “This represents the start of an exciting expansion for Duchy Homes in the North East.”