Transformation of old Ponteland Library site underway
AS DEMOLITION OF THE FORMER LIBRARY SITE IN PONTELAND GETS UNDERWAY, NORTHUMBERLAND’S NEWEST HOUSEBUILDER, ASCENT HOMES, HAS UNVEILED THE MARKETING NAME OF THE STUNNING NEW DEVELOPMENT WHICH WILL OCCUPY THE SITE.
Set out over two blocks, Eland Court, as the development will be known, will feature 25 luxury apartments and penthouses which will be built in two individual blocks over three storeys and linked at first and second floor level with a contemporary glazed bridge.
Four of the one-bedroom properties will be sold at a discounted rate in keeping with a Section 106 Agreement and will only be available to purchasers who live in the immediate vicinity.
Lying in the heart of the town, the development is set against a backdrop of both historic and modern buildings.
Following an initial public consultation and detailed discussions with local residents about the original height of the buildings, the scale of the development has been carefully conceived to overcome local concerns. Featuring a natural colour palette and incorporating a render and batten and board timber facade as well as full height glazing, the revised design ensures that the apartments blend seamlessly with adjacent properties.
As the first phase of construction gets underway, speaking about the development, Duncan Bowman, Development Director for Ascent Homes, said: “We are really pleased to get this development on site. Throughout the design and planning process, we have been aware that there is not only pent up demand in this area but a genuine need for this type and size of property.
“Our plans for the Thornhill Road library site ensure that not only will the appearance of the site be enhanced, but the scheme will help satisfy the principles of sustainable development with well designed residential accommodation that is in keeping with the form and style of nearby dwellings.
“Ascent Homes takes great pride in the high specification of all its properties and is passionate about providing good quality, well designed homes which complement their surroundings. I believe this scheme will allow us to introduce some much needed variety into the housing market in Ponteland with a mix of accommodation types and we are looking forward to seeing construction work progress once the demolition is complete.”
Cllr Richard Wearmouth, chair of Arch, said. “It is pleasing to see construction work starting on this prime site which is well located for transport, schools and retail facilities. Eland Court should also help to meet the accommodation requirements of the area where more entry level housing as well as housing offering one or two bedrooms, is needed".
One of the region’s leading building contractors, Surgo Construction, has been appointed as the main contractor on the scheme. Demolition of the library is expected to take two weeks with start on site to follow soon after.
