News

18-02-2025

Burtree Garden Village ready to progress after Section 106 agreement signed

The Section 106 agreement for Burtree Garden Village, a housing and employment project led by Hellens Group in partnership with Homes England, has been signed. This secures planning permission and enables the project to move forward, with work expected to commence in the coming weeks.

The development will deliver 2,000 new homes over the next 20 years, 200,000 sq. m of employment space, and essential infrastructure to support the growing community. The first phase of the project includes 750 homes, green infrastructure, and a 20-acre public park, with nearly half of the site designated as green open space. The scheme also incorporates retail outlets, community amenities, and sustainable transport links.

Homes England has committed £43 million to fund the site’s infrastructure, including highway improvements, sustainable transport options, and green infrastructure. Darlington Borough Council is a key partner in the project, contributing land and strategic oversight to ensure its successful delivery.

The signing of the Section 106 agreement follows the formal planning application process, which included extensive consultation with local stakeholders and authorities. The agreement outlines the obligations of the developers in delivering key infrastructure and affordable housing as part of the wider masterplan for Burtree Garden Village.

Gavin Cordwell-Smith, Chief Executive of Hellens Group, stated: “The signing of the Section 106 agreement marks the final step in securing planning permission, allowing us to move ahead with delivering the first phase of Burtree Garden Village. This development will provide much-needed housing, employment space, and infrastructure, contributing to the long-term prosperity of Darlington. We now look forward to starting work on-site in the coming weeks.”

With all planning conditions now met, initial works, including preparatory groundworks and infrastructure installation, will begin shortly, paving the way for the first homes to be built. Further updates on the development timeline and key milestones will be provided as the project progresses.