It is full steam ahead for the £1bn regeneration of Purfleet-on-Thames, being delivered by Purfleet Centre Regeneration Limited (PCRL), a joint venture between Urban Catalyst and Swan Housing Association in association with Thurrock Council.
Works have officially started on Phase 1A of the project which will create 61 new spacious two, three and four bedroom homes close to the railway station, helping to address local housing need.
Leading construction engineering specialist, Keltbray, has been appointed by PCRL to deliver the ground works for the first phase and Swan will deliver the new homes.
The initial phase also includes a new children’s play area and an orchard walk which will reinstate public access to Hollow Woods creating a gateway to the wider masterplan by connecting the new neighbourhood to the future new town centre and wider community spaces.
The 2.36 hectare development has been designed to enhance the green links to Purfleet’s Conservation Area so that residents can enjoy the space, with the aim of creating a healthier, more active community.
The architecture is deliberately in keeping with the woodland setting, reflecting the style of homes in the surrounding Conservation Area by making use of timber effect and Flint Gabions.
The initial phase will be a mix of modern two, three and four bedroom homes and over 50% will be available to purchase under the Government’s Shared Ownership scheme that aims to make getting on the housing ladder more affordable.
The initial 61 new homes form part of the £1 billion planned regeneration of the town centre that will see PCRL create 2,850 new, high-quality homes alongside a vibrant town centre with shops, community amenities including a new health centre, improved railway and transport facilities and employment and training opportunities.
PCRL’s ambitious regeneration plans also encompass a state-of-the-art media village and entertainment studios, with the vison for Purfleet-on-Thames, which is already home to the High House Production Park, to become an international creative hub within the Thames Gateway.
Ken Dytor, Director and Founder of PCRL, said: “We are proud to announce that work has commenced on the first phase of Purfleet-on-Thames’ regeneration. Our plans will see a vibrant riverside destination created where people can live, work, learn and socialise in harmony with its natural surroundings.
“These homes will not only contribute to the Government’s target to build 300,000 new homes every year to address the UK’S chronic housing shortage but will also support the wider growth vision for Thames Estuary. Unlocking the region’s economic potential will be key to securing the UK’s recovery post-Brexit and Covid-19.”
Vince Corrigan, Chief Operating Officer at Keltbray, said: “Keltbray is pleased to have started works on this innovative urban regeneration scheme to support the transformation of Purfleet-on-Thames into an exciting riverside destination. The delivery of new homes embedded within modern, integrated community-based facilities will not only have significant social and economic benefits for the local community, but also the country as a whole as we work to build back better and support the UK Government’s economic recovery post-Covid-19.”
To find out more, visit ourpurfleet.com
