Housing scheme lined up for Cotswold village after site acquisition

A new retirement and housing scheme is set to be developed in a Cotswolds village, after the site was purchased from Midcounties Co-op.Lifestory, which is behind the Anthology, Pegasus and Renaissance brands, has acquired the Bourton-on-the-Water site which includes a range of existing buildings such as former Countrywide and Co-operative stores and a garage. Following the deal, it will seek planning permission in early 2023 for the new development on Station Road in the village.The sales process was managed by real estate advisory Avison Young and saw a total of 33 bids.The planned project is set to bring new homes to the area and provide the site with a new lease of life.Joe Williams, associate director for land and development at Avison Young, said: “The Station Road site presented an attractive proposition to buyers, located in a very attractive area, with the potential to add value to the local community.”There appears to be no slow-down in demand for quality homes, especially in the Cotswolds region. The regeneration of the site is set to bring new homes where they are very much needed.”Nestled within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the site is close to the village’s High Street, set on the River Windrush, and amenities, including a large Co-operative Food store. Bourton-on-the-Water is a 30-minute drive from Cheltenham and a 40-minute drive from Gloucester.Kathryn Lyddon, CPO at Co-op, said: “We are pleased our non-trade site in Bourton-on-the-Water was so well received by the market, and that, subject to planning, it will be used to provide much needed homes in this beautiful and ever popular area of the Cotswolds.”We continue to review our portfolio to ensure it meets our strategic needs and provides value for the Society.”