Work starts on urban extension’s first stage

Work is underway on the first stage of a sustainable urban extension in Gainsborough.Phase one of Thonock Green will consist of 130 homes, built by national housebuilder Persimmon Homes.The scheme, which is situated on land off Sweyn Lane on the outskirts of Gainsborough town centre, has the capacity for up to 2,500 homes in total, with outline planning permission secured previously by Savills for up to 900 homes.Simon Douglas, development director at Savills in Leeds, who sold the first parcel of land to Persimmon on behalf of Thonock & Somerby Estates, said: “After a long period of planning and marketing this site, it is fantastic to begin to see it come to life with the build of the first phase commencing.”The landowner has invested significant resources into the site by acting on our advice and creating market-facing serviced parcels for immediate delivery of housing.”We are proud to have delivered this new community on the edge of Gainsborough town centre, which will create some much-needed new housing, and jobs whilst providing significant S106 contributions to the area.”This first collection of new homes on site by a national housebuilder will be a catalyst to attract other housebuilders to the sustainable urban extension.”Sally Grindrod-Smith, director of planning, regeneration and communities at West Lindsey District Council, added: “I warmly welcome the start of construction on the much-anticipated housing project.”This diverse scheme includes a range of house types, addressing the pressing need for additional housing in West Lindsey.”This initiative is a significant and welcome addition to the community, contributing to the region’s growth and meeting the demand for housing.”I would like to express my gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have brought this project to fruition and the positive impact it will have.”The next parcel of land being sold is to the north-east of Hornby, called Thonock Park. It has outline planning permission for 620 homes, and Savills has received bids for half of this area with access off Corringham Road.