The 18 acre brownfield site of Leicester’s Waterside area will undergo a major transformation into a thriving new neighbourhood of homes, shops and workplaces, thanks to community regeneration specialist and housebuilder, Keepmoat.
The firm’s selection by Leicester City Council came as the site was designated as a strategic regeneration area; with the council identifying Waterside’s potential for economic benefits under a residentially-led regeneration scheme.
Alongside 302 new city centre homes, Keepmoat will deliver 67, 500 square feet of grade-A office space, a 5000 square foot retail unit, a neighbourhood park and more. Leicester City Council has already allocated £15m worth of capital funding to the scheme, with another £45m expected to be invested.
With the council also opting to use the CITB’s Client Based Approach, various employment and training opportunities will be established for local residents throughout the refurbishment. Local subcontractors will also be sourced throughout the development, with Keepmoat maintaining a strong focus on upskilling the supply chain in Leicestershire.
The initial plans represent the first of approximately 60 phases of refurbishment for the area, with recent estimates giving a timeline of nine to ten years until full completion.
Regional director for Keepmoat Homes, Andrew Mason said: ‘We are delighted to be selected as preferred developer to deliver Phase One of the Waterside development.
“Keepmoat has an exemplary track record in working with public sector organisations to deliver their regeneration aspirations and we look forward to working in partnership with Leicester City Council to deliver our joint vision for Waterside.
“We believe this scheme offers a unique opportunity to maximise the full potential of the waterside setting and transform the area, creating an exciting housing offer and providing a new high-quality office location in the city centre.”
