The multi-million pound building project to create 800 new homes in the heart of Derby has begun – five years after the site was flattened.
It was half a decade ago the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary was demolished, and after a number of false starts to develop the land by previous owners of the site, work has now begun.
The 18-acres will slowly be transformed over the next five years by Wavensmere Homes for the £150 million development, which will become a green oasis’ for its new residents, including cycle routes, an open air gym and fitness area, children’s play areas and planting throughout the site.
Over 2,000 people have now registered their interest in the 125 two and three bedroom homes, before the further release of 675 one bed properties which are set to be opened for interest early this year.
James Dickens, Managing Director of Wavensmere Homes said: “We are incredibly proud that work has begun on the site and we are able to show residents and businesses surrounding the site that we have been able to follow through on our promise to start the process in developing the land, which has stood as a brownfield site for so many years.
“Appointing haart as the estate agents and the contact for prospective buyers last year, and then M. Lambe Construction as the groundworkers has been two milestone contracts to secure, especially as they are now both based in Derby – and has also meant that hundreds of jobs have been created in the area for these plans to become a reality and support the local economy,” he added.
Mr Dickens added they were also going to ensure that the Infirmary’s iconic pepper pot buildings will be retained for community use, with residents having access to numerous facilities including a café, gym, exhibition space and meeting rooms.
John Forkin, Managing Director of Marketing Derby added: “The Nightingale Quarter is a key asset in the centre of Derby. Cleared city sites of this size are rare. Seeing work commence shows the ambitions of the city to create a new urban village and fits with the masterplan to deliver 1,900 new homes.
“Wavensmere have a successful track record with similar schemes in the West Midlands. Their investment in The Nightingale Quarter is a long-term commitment to Derby and will provide a desirable place to live in the city,” he added.
It was revealed last year that the cost of homes start for a two-bed property at £185,000 and for a three-bed property at £220,000. Help to Buy is also available for first time buyers.
