Newland Homes has confirmed its acquisition of Southgate House in Devizes from NHS Estates, marking a significant step forward in the future redevelopment of this prominent brownfield site, close to the town centre. The plans return the site back to its original residential use.
The company, based in Gloucestershire, has submitted a planning application to Wiltshire Council to redevelop the disused site into 34 zero carbon homes, including one and two bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom houses. A planning decision is pending.
Located within close proximity of Devizes town centre, on Pans Lane, Southgate House’s most recent use was the headquarters for the former NHS local Clinical Commissioning Group, before being decommissioned after becoming surplus to requirements. The capital receipt generated from the purchase has been reinvested by the NHS into local healthcare services.
The purchase of the site takes Newland Homes a step closer to being able to deliver much-needed new homes. Simon Richardson, Associate Land Director at Newland Homes, comments: “The government has repeatedly stated its ambition for new homes to be delivered on previously developed land, highlighting the importance of regenerating underused areas to support urban renewal. This site represents the kind of sustainable development opportunity the government wants to see come forward, making it an important contribution towards Devizes’ future growth.”
In addition, the government recently affirmed its commitment to net zero by pressing ahead with plans to make solar panels compulsory on all new build homes by 2027. Newland Homes has been leading the way on this front for several years. Since 2022, all of Newland Homes’ houses have been built with solar panels and air source heat pumps as standard, providing homeowners with energy-efficient, fossil fuel-free living from day one. This is in stark contrast to industry figures that show only four out of every ten newly built homes currently have solar panels fitted*.
The new homes in Devizes will have EV charging points and ample on-site parking will be provided as part of the redevelopment. Biodiversity will be enhanced through the introduction of hedgehog highways, bird and bat boxes and specialist pollinator planting. New tree planting is also planned, along with the retention of existing hedgerows.
Newland Homes is a carbon-neutral company, reflecting its commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The company has a long connection with Wiltshire and is currently building energy efficient, zero carbon homes near Devizes in Worton and in Semington near Trowbridge. Further information about all sites is available at www.newlandhomes.co.uk
Article from Vox PR and Marketing
