Network Rail is completing plans to release land for the development of around 12,000 new homes, as part of the Government’s overall target to release land for 160,000 homes.
Britain’s rail infrastructure operator has identified nearly 200 sites across the country which have been earmarked as suitable for housing development.
This includes land for around 5,000 homes in London, 3,600 in Manchester and the North, 1,700 in the Midlands and East of England, and around 1,400 homes in the South of England.
The ambitious programme is already under way with the largest 20 sites. Planned projects include the former Exchange Station site in Manchester, which will deliver land for 700 homes, and a major scheme at Chesterton near Cambridge which will release land for over 800 homes.
Network Rail will partner with developers to release land on a site-by-site basis over the next three to four years. The company is also considering an accelerated approach whereby some sites may be grouped and sold as multi-site developments. These sites could go to market as early as spring 2017.
David Biggs, managing director of Network Rail Property, said: “As we now ramp up our land release programme to deliver thousands more homes, we will be working closely with the Homes and Communities Agency, London Land Commission, local authorities and developers to bring identified sites forward to help meet the country’s housing needs.”
Adam Davis, a Partner with Palmers who specialises in construction law, said: “With the Government actively driving through this land release initiative, the sector can expect to see many more housing projects being given the green light.
“Our experience in working with the construction and engineering sector means we are ideally placed to provide independent, practical advice to help firms with their contracts and submissions.”
For help and support on contract submissions and project delivery compliance, please contact Palmers specialist construction team.