WORK has begun on a new custom-build housing development in east Durham following a landowner’s collaboration with a body that funds affordable housing and council planners.

Located in the village of Thornley, the 10-acre site has the potential of accommodating up to 100 new homes.

The brownfield site known as Dunelm Stables has been owned by Joe Bell for over 20 years. Having previously used the site for stabling and training horses, he recently retired from his equestrian life and was keen to explore opportunities to develop the land.

Now through his family’s business LCC Bell Developments, work has begun work on phase one, which includes 19 self-build plots - some of which have already been sold.

The scheme has been enabled thanks to £650,000 of funding from Homes England through the Home Building Fund, to facilitate the infrastructure required, including the installation of sewers, other utilities and access roads.

Mr Bell said: “When we looked into custom-build as a possibility for the first phase of development it seemed to fit with all the inquiries I’d already had from local people about the land.

“Although Thornley is quite rural, we benefit from good access to Durham city and surrounding towns. Having lived locally all my life I know the market really well and we employ all our labour within a ten mile radius.

“It’s important that Thornley gets homes that meet the needs of the people that live here and want to live here.

“We have worked closely with both Homes England and Durham County Council to develop what I believe is the best outcome for the land.”

Nigel Barclay, Head of Development Finance for Homes England comments; “This site is an excellent example of how Homes England is using the Home Building Fund to support small developers to deliver regionally and invest in the construction of quality homes.

“Joe is committed to providing a first class custom build development that will provide much needed new homes for the community in Thornley.”

Durham County Council’s head of planning and assets, Stuart Timmiss, said: “We are always happy to offer our high quality pre-application advice service to help potential builders prepare appropriate plans that are right for County Durham.

“We know that the government wants more people to build or commission their own home and obviously this application, now permission has been granted, will assist in the opportunities for that.”

Mr Bell has outline permission for the development. Plot buyers will be responsible for securing detailed planning permission.