A long-standing collaboration in Leeds has successfully yielded over 1,000 new homes for the city, with more than 250 homes to be delivered as affordable housing.
The partnership between Keepmoat, Strata and Leeds Council have worked together since 2016 to to transform 13 formerly council-owned brownfield sites across East Leeds, contributing to the council’s strategic housing growth plans under the Leeds Brownfield Land Programme. Backed by a £110m+ devolved fund, the strategy aims to provide over 30,000 homes and hit net-zero targets by 2030.
External benefits to the local community have also been delivered as part of the project, including cycle paths, new road connections, greenspace enhancements and the award winning Killingbeck Meadows Flood Alleviation project.
Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “By providing much-needed additional housing options for local people, our work with Keepmoat and Strata has had a transformational impact on Seacroft, Halton Moor and Osmondthorpe.
“I’m particularly pleased that we have taken the opportunity to purchase some of these high-quality new homes for use as council housing, supporting our wider efforts to ensure that everyone in Leeds can enjoy the stability and sense of security that comes with having a safe, warm and welcoming place to live.”
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The project also saw the creation of 68 apprenticeships, providing new paths into the world of work for young professionals. This is especially relevant after a recent government report exposed the record-breaking NEET (Not in Education Employment and Training) crisis amongst younger people, with more than 1m young people not in employment or further education, the most in the last 12 years.
Dan Crew, Divisional Chair at Keepmoat added: “At Keepmoat, we are committed to delivering more than just housing developments, we’re building sustainable communities. Our partnership with Strata and Leeds City Council has allowed us to make a significant impact to transform multiple areas of this vibrant city.
“By working closely with the council and Strata, we’ve added to this fantastic, welcoming place for people to call home while supporting jobs, skills, and opportunities for local people.”
Gemma Smith, CEO at Strata said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been part of this project in Leeds and to have helped transform these former brownfield sites into vibrant, welcoming communities where people can build their futures.
“Designing and building homes is about so much more than bricks and mortar, it’s about creating places with a real sense of belonging that will be enjoyed and have a positive impact on many generations to come. This project is a great example of what can be achieved through a shared commitment to regeneration and creating lasting positive change, and we’re proud to have played our part in bringing these new communities to life across Leeds.”
