believe housing hopes to build 22 new affordable homes on the outskirts of Durham, redeveloping the site of outdated houses that are set to be demolished.
In 2023, following consultation with customers, believe housing decided to demolish its homes in Farnham Road, Newton Hall, which were built as temporary accommodation in the early 1960s.
Over time, their timber frames and cladding have made them hard to heat, insulate, and update to modern standards.
81% of tenants agreed that the homes should be demolished and believe housing’s Board decided this was the best way forward, due to the extensive and unviable nature of works needed.
While the decision was not easy, believe housing worked closely with all residents affected to find a resolution that met their individual needs.
The tenants in its 15 homes have all now been rehoused and compensated, and seven privately-owned adjoining homes were also purchased by the housing association.
With the homes now empty, believe housing is preparing for demolition and has drawn up plans to redevelop the site with 22 new homes to help meet demand for affordable housing in the area.
The proposed scheme includes four bungalows and 18 houses, which would all be available for social rent or affordable home ownership.
It has been designed to preserve trees and a car park on the site and will include land currently occupied by five garage blocks owned by believe housing, which it also plans to demolish.
A public consultation event will be held at All Saints Church, on Carr House Drive, Newton Hall, DH1 5LT, from 3.30pm to 6pm, on Thursday, 8 May 2025 to share more details about the project and gather feedback.
This will be used to shape the final proposal before it is submitted to Durham County Council to consider planning permission.
At around the same time as the consultation, believe housing will apply to the council for permission to demolish the old homes. It is hoped that demolition could begin this summer.
Kate Abson, Director of Assets and Development at believe housing, said: “We understand that the decision to demolish was difficult for some residents, but we’ve worked hard to support everyone affected.
“Following discussions with Durham County Council over the future of the site, we’re now looking forward to sharing our plans with the public.
“This is a brilliant location, close to the city and local amenities, and we’re keen to replace the outdated homes with modern, energy-efficient ones that will help meet the need for affordable housing in County Durham.”
A preferred contractor has been appointed by believe housing to carry out the demolition and redevelopment.
Construction work could start as soon as next summer, if the plans are approved and government funding towards redevelopment costs is secured.
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