Plans unveiled for new homes on Merlin’s Newleaze House site

Residents in Filton took time out to look at Merlin Housing Society’s plans for the development of 16 new homes on a site in Roycroft Road.

Around 40 people attended a public consultation event at Newleaze House to view the plans before the housing association submits its planning application.

The plans include six two-bed houses, four three-bed houses and six one and two-bedroom flats which will be offered at a mix of social rent, market rent and shared ownership.

Merlin’s Development Manager Peter Crouch said:

“The site provides us with a fantastic opportunity to develop much needed and affordable family homes in Filton. We’ve tried to reflect current and future demand for housing in the area.”

“We held this event as an opportunity to find out what local people think of the proposals. Most of the comments we received were in favour of the development. We had a few minor objections, which we will address before we submit a formal planning application.”

“We’re aiming to start on site early next year and have the homes ready for people to move into in early 2015.”

Previously used as older people’s housing, Newleaze House was deemed not fit for this purpose back in 2010, based on the size and accessibility of the bedsits it housed.

Merlin helped move the existing residents out of the building earlier this year, some of whom went to its brand new retirement development at Bluebell Gardens in Bradley Stoke.

The society initially looked the idea of using Newleaze House for student accommodation, but after consulting with the local community, it became clear that redevelopment was a more viable option.

People will also have a chance to have their say through South Gloucestershire Council’s formal planning process.

Source: Press release from Merlin Housing Society