We can confirm that we have now appointed our main contractor Lovell Partnership Ltd for the build and development of the Mile Cross site.
This development will deliver 67 brand new energy efficient council homes for rent, designed to meet the housing needs of local residents and support our commitment to sustainable, high-quality living. This is the latest chapter in a century of providing affordable homes for our residents.
Councillor Beth Jones, cabinet member for housing, said:
“I am incredibly pleased to see us moving forward with the appointment of Lovell Partnership Ltd. This continues our commitment as a council to delivering more sustainable, high-quality, affordable housing for our communities.”
The project will be delivered under industry-standard agreements to ensure quality and value for money. As part of the pre-construction phase, Ovamill who was appointed in September as ground works contractor has already begun the essential ground works for essential utilities and road infrastructure.
The total budget for this development is £20.5 million, funded by the housing revenue account. With the main works contractor now appointed, detailed design and build preparations will begin immediately, and building works are expected to start next year.
This first phase is part of a wider three-part regeneration scheme for the area, anticipated to deliver approximately 170 homes overall. Features for the new houses will include air source heat pumps, solar panels, and thoughtful interior design to help tackle fuel and furniture poverty. The development will also include green spaces, a play area, and improved connectivity to the city via Marriot’s Way.
We will continue to prioritise awarding contracts to local suppliers wherever possible, supporting local jobs and boosting the local economy.
Sasha Bainbridge, Regional Partnerships Director for Lovell, said:
“Lovell is proud to be working in partnership with Norwich City Council to deliver high‑quality homes that meet local needs in supporting the wider community.”
This is a key step in delivering the council’s community-led plan, ‘We are Norwich’, this meets our fairer Norwich priority to build more affordable and energy efficient homes. We look forward to working with our partners and residents to bring this vibrant new neighbourhood to life.