The North of Tyne Combined Authority and Homes England have today signed an ambitious Memorandum of Understanding – to accelerate the construction of homes as part of the region’s bold plan for post-Covid growth and renewal.
With a focus on the strategic economic corridors of the Northumberland Line, City Centre and North Bank of the River Tyne, the agreement signals strong collaboration between Homes England and the Combined Authority, unlocking resources and expertise that will accelerate development on some of the region’s most important housing sites.
The agreement complements the strong partnership across the region’s local authorities – Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland and will build on over £60m of current investment from the Combined Authority in net zero transition, economic innovation and future skills.
Mayor Norma Redfearn, Chair of the North of Tyne Housing and Land Board, said: “Communities in our region need good quality, sustainable housing that is fit for the future. This collaborative agreement shows that we are working hard to turn words into action, building on our £24 million brownfield programme and ambitious regeneration plans in places like North Shields, Scotswood and Blyth”.
Duncan Sutherland, Board Member of Homes England and Co-Chair of the North of Tyne Housing and Land Board, said: “North of Tyne have shown real ambition to accelerate the construction of homes and this agreement enables us to combine our resources to do just that. I look forward to us moving forward quickly, getting spades in the ground and providing the new homes communities are crying out for”.
Henry Kippin, Managing Director of the North of Tyne Combined Authority, said: “Strong collaboration runs through everything we do as a Combined Authority. Working closely with Homes England will enable us to advance our shared goals of sustainable housing that supports inclusive growth, net zero and post-Covid renewal”.
Peter Denton, Chief Executive of Homes England, said: “This new collaboration is one of many ways that Homes England can support places to build more homes. Developing closer working relationships with local partners is fundamental to increasing the supply of well-designed homes and creating great new places.”