The preferred bidders for the £35 million Skipton development have been chosen.

Lovell and Maple Grove was picked for the scheme which involves the construction of 220 new homes – 88 for affordable rent and low-cost home ownership and 132 homes for open market sale – as well as new retail outlets. Lovell is responsible for the housing element of the scheme, valued at £28 million, while Maple Grove will be delivering the retail development.


The project is currently in its design phase, with construction expected to start in Spring 2010 and to be complete by 2015.

"We look forward to working with Craven District Council to deliver this key mixed-tenure development for Skipton," said Paul Smith, Chief Executive of Morgan Sindall. "Demand for the provision of new affordable homes throughout the UK remains healthy. There is still a significant supply/demand imbalance and the sector continues to be a priority for the Government. As market leaders in the field, we are well positioned to take advantage of current opportunities."

(CD/BMcC)