A popular housing development is set to expand after land was secured for a further 70 homes.

The deal to secure a six-acre plot to the south east of the Bishops Park development, near Auckland Park, means the new properties will be built as part of the proposed 500-home estate.

Work on this final parcel of land, acquired from Durham County Council – and which was once home to old railway sidings – is expected to start in 2024.  

The developer Countryside Partnerships North East has already constructed 99 new homes – 49 for private sale, 20 for shared ownership and 30 for affordable rent – during the first phase of works on the £89.5M project.

Work began on a second phase of housing in May last year, which will see the delivery of 331 properties. County Durham based housing association, Believe Housing, is in the process of acquiring 100 of the properties for affordable rent and rent to buy, with an option on a further 100, under the same tenures. The remaining 131 homes will be available to purchase soon through Linden Homes.

The Northern Echo: Auckland Park, where up to 500 homes are being built Auckland Park, where up to 500 homes are being built (Image: Google)

The land had been earmarked for housing since 2007 but no construction took place until a grant was secured.

Negotiated as part of the whole project, the developer will contribute over £325,000 towards infrastructure improvements to Coundon Gate Roundabout - the junction of the A689 and A688.

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Andrew Rennie, development director at Countryside Partnerships North East, said: “We are pleased to have unlocked this final parcel of land that will allow us to continue delivering high quality new homes that meet the varying housing needs of local people.

“Here at Bishops Park, our expertise – and a good working relationship with Durham County Council - has resulted in a new and sustainable community that is improving both the choice and quality of homes in the area.”