Member Article

Plans for a new healthcare, residential and commercial development in Consett welcomed by stakeholders'

A prime site to the south of Puddlers roundabout, Genesis Way in Consett, set to deliver a vibrant mix of healthcare, commercial and residential facilities, bringing new homes, jobs, and visitors to the region, has been welcomed by stakeholders.

The Derwent View proposal, recently given the green light by Durham County Council’s planning committee, reinforces the town’s growth potential by responding to and complementing the communities existing and future needs.

Part of Project Genesis, the re-development of the former steelworks site, designed by North East based architects, Sadler Brown includes options for a new community hospital, healthcare facilities, pharmacy, hotel, public house, micro-brewery, gym and Veterinary surgery.

Before construction can begin on the site, the exciting plans will need a second more detailed round of approval, which will then pave the way for the finalisation of the options outlined by the developer Project Genesis Ltd.

Mike Clark, development director for Project Genesis, said, “We are delighted our vibrant mix of development plans have been granted approval by Durham County Council planners and have been warmly welcomed and supported by stakeholders in the region.

“Our proposal reinforces the town’s growth potential and communities needs and will also help attract visitors to the area and new commercial ventures.

“The site is also the best and most accessible location available for the delivery of health and well-being services for the existing and growing population of the area and can accommodate a new medical facility, preferably before the predicted closure of Shotley Bridge Hospital occurs.

“We have widely consulted with stakeholders throughout the process to make sure that the site will work for the benefit of the community and local economy. Our proposals are also designed to complement and enhance the town’s offering, attracting people to use the services and amenities, which will support local businesses and generate commercial opportunities by keeping spend local.

Richard Holden, MP for North West Durham, said, “I am delighted that Durham County Council have recognised the importance of Project Genesis and the re-development of the former steel works site.

“The proposal reflects the needs of the local area and will help our local economy grow. It will be enormously beneficial for those who live in and around Consett, and it will have a positive impact on the wider NW Durham area.

Conceptual designs have been created commercial and residential award-winning architects, Sadler Brown, with more detailed building and landscape designs already in development.

David Davies, Director of Sadler Brown Architecture said, “We are delighted to have been commissioned by Dysart to develop this fascinating blend of healthcare, residential and commercial facilities.”

“We have worked very closely with the developer to create these exciting plans for a key site in Consett, helping them realise their vision, and we look forward to progressing this fantastic development opportunity as more detailed design proposals begin to take form and shape.”

Project Genesis Trust has been working for 25 years to regenerate the former Consett Steelworks site following its closure 40 years ago this year.

During that time the Trust has levered in approximately £200m of investment and helped to sustain or create over 1,500 jobs in the town.

The latest development will help continue that investment and create new opportunities for growth.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Gardiner Richardson .