Work is finally set to start on a new canalside apartments in Chester city centre. The 126-flat development will be built at the site of the since demolished Premier House building - once occupied by Lloyds Banking Group.
The plans were rubber stamped back in 2023 by Cheshire West and Chester Council. Now, Clarion Housing Group has confirmed that Galliford Try has been chosen as the delivery partner for the long-awaited scheme at the City Place site.
The £28 million contract for the development on Charterhall Drive, next to the Shropshire Union Canal and grade-II-listed Chester Shot Tower, will provide high-quality 23 one-bed and 103 two-bed apartments. The scheme forms part of a wider City Place masterplan.
READ MORE: {{title}}
Subject to a planning modification, work is expected to begin this month with Latimer - the development arm of Clarion - overseeing delivery by Galliford Try. The scheme will be fully fossil-fuel-free, with all homes achieving a minimum EPC B rating and 100% EV charging provision.
Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said, "This appointment is an important step forward in delivering 126 much-needed social rent homes for Chester. We are committed to working with Cheshire West and Chester Council to address local housing need, and this scheme will provide high-quality, sustainable homes for residents for generations to come.
"This all social rent development demonstrates the value of long-term partnerships and our determination to invest in communities where affordable housing is urgently needed.” Darren Parker, Managing Director of Galliford Try Building North West, added: "We are delighted to be underway with the City Place project on behalf of Clarion. This innovative new development will be an exemplar for sustainable living, and we look forward to working with Clarion to deliver the high-quality homes their customers deserve.”