As a Registered Provider of Affordable Housing, Hellens Residential Limited aspires to ensure these new homes are accessible to local residents in need of high-quality, affordable housing.

The submission follows the recent signing of the Section 106 agreement, which secured planning permission for the wider Burtree Garden Village project. The development, a collaboration between Hellens Group and Homes England, will ultimately deliver 2,000 homes, 200,000 sq. m of employment space, and essential community infrastructure over the next 20 years. The first phase will include 750 homes, extensive green infrastructure, and a 20-acre public park, with nearly half of the site dedicated to green open space.

Kate Hellens, Managing Director of Hellens Residential Limited, said: “We are delighted to have submitted this planning application, which represents the first step in delivering much-needed homes at Burtree Garden Village.

“Our aspiration is for all these homes to be affordable, ensuring that local families and individuals can access high-quality housing that meets their needs. We are in advanced discussions with Homes England to secure the necessary funding to achieve this, and we remain committed to working closely with partners to maximise affordability and sustainability within the development.”

Homes England has pledged £43 million to support site infrastructure, including road improvements, sustainable transport initiatives, and green infrastructure. Darlington Borough Council remains a key partner in the project, ensuring strategic oversight and alignment with the town’s long-term growth ambitions.

The planning application submission marks the beginning of the first phase of residential development, with further milestones and updates expected as the project progresses. If approved, work on the initial 122 homes could begin in the coming months, laying the foundation for a thriving new community at Burtree Garden Village.