Former Factory Site in Balderton to Become Home for More Than 300 Families
In a significant step forward for housing development in the Balderton area, the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has confirmed approximately £1.7 million in funding for the transformation of the former FlowServe factory site. This brownfield regeneration project, already underway under the careful management of housing specialist Lovell, will create 309 new homes, breathing new life into what was once an industrial space. The development, known as Balderton Rise, represents a thoughtful approach to addressing housing needs while repurposing unused land, with 138 of the planned properties designated as affordable housing to help local families find quality homes at accessible prices. The diverse mix of one- to four-bedroom properties, including both houses and maisonettes, aims to cater to various household sizes and needs in the community.
“As Balderton Rise continues to come to life, the support from EMCCA is vital in helping us to bring forward new communities in Newark, with high-quality homes fit for the future,” shared Beth Bundonis, regional managing director at Lovell. The transformation of this formerly unused industrial site is showing remarkable progress, positioned in what Bundonis describes as a “prime location” for those looking to make Balderton their home. The collaborative effort between Lovell, EMCCA, and Platform Housing Group (for whom the homes are being built) demonstrates a shared commitment to developing much-needed housing in the East Midlands by unlocking the potential of brownfield land. This partnership approach ensures that different expertise and resources come together to create not just houses, but a thoughtfully designed living environment that will serve residents for generations to come.
Following the confirmation of funding, EMCCA mayor Claire Ward visited the construction site to witness the progress firsthand. She emphasized the broader significance of the project: “With £1.7m from my Brownfield Housing Fund, this development will deliver more than 300 homes – including 138 affordable homes which simply would not have been possible otherwise.” The mayor’s comments highlight how public funding can make the crucial difference in ensuring developments include substantial affordable housing components, addressing one of the most pressing issues in today’s housing market. For many local families, these affordable units represent the difference between remaining in uncertain housing situations and having a stable, quality home in their community.
Mayor Ward also pointed to the forward-thinking design elements of the development: “These will be modern, sustainable homes featuring air-source heat pumps, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points – alongside green spaces and a children’s play area.” This emphasis on sustainability reflects a growing recognition that new housing developments must address not only immediate housing needs but also long-term environmental considerations. The inclusion of renewable energy technologies and EV charging infrastructure prepares the homes for a future with reduced carbon emissions, while potentially offering residents lower energy costs. Equally important to creating a thriving community are the planned green spaces and play area, which provide crucial outdoor environments for children’s development and community interaction.
Beyond the housing itself, the Balderton Rise development represents an economic boost for the region, with Mayor Ward noting that “the scheme will also support more than 100 construction jobs.” These employment opportunities create immediate economic benefits for local workers and businesses in the construction supply chain. The transformation from an unused factory site to a vibrant residential community illustrates how brownfield development can simultaneously address housing shortages while creating economic activity. This multiplier effect extends beyond the construction phase, as new residents will support local businesses, services, and contribute to the tax base that funds essential community services.
“This is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about building strong communities and making the East Midlands a place everyone can be proud to call home,” Mayor Ward concluded. This sentiment captures the essence of what makes housing development so crucial to regional vitality. When thoughtfully executed, as appears to be the case with Balderton Rise, housing developments create the physical framework within which community life unfolds. The mix of housing types, inclusion of affordable options, sustainable features, and community spaces all contribute to creating an environment where diverse households can establish roots, form connections, and participate in community life. As construction continues on the former FlowServe site, the project stands as a testament to how collaborative efforts between public authorities, housing specialists, and housing groups can transform unused industrial spaces into vibrant neighborhoods that serve the broader community’s needs.
