Maidenhead: Countryside wins bid for major regeneration sites

The housebuilder was selected from a shortlist of five bidders following a competitive tender process, beating Berkeley Homes (Oxford and Chiltern), Grainger, Shanly Homes and Pinnacle Group in consortium with Groveworld & Starwood Capital Group.

The joint venture will now embark on the regeneration of the four sites at York Road, West Street, Reform Road and St Cloud’s Way. The schemes represent the biggest release of public land in the borough for several years. Subject to planning consent, construction could start in 2018.

Simon Dudley, leader of the council, said: “With the Elizabeth line (Crossrail) arriving in 2019, we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to deliver an ambitious redevelopment programme right at the heart of the community.

“Countryside made an impressive bid and we are looking forward to working with them to rejuvenate the town.

“The council will retain considerable control over how the sites are developed and is committed to providing high quality homes, including genuinely affordable options for local residents so we can build a borough for everyone.”

Richard Cherry, chief executive of partnerships at Countryside, said: “In partnership with the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead we are going to create a thriving town-centre with new homes, shops, businesses and community spaces. We will integrate existing residents with new neighbours and create an attractive cultural quarter where people can relax.

“Maidenhead will become the distinctive heart of the community welcoming, attractive and accessible to all, providing a strong economic focus for the wider community. Principally, we will create homes for people and a place for everyone.”

As well as new homes, the redevelopment of the four sites will deliver high-quality office accommodation to meet the growing demand from businesses wishing to locate in the town.

Source: CoStar