Construction has officially begun on a major new housing development in Cheltenham, marking a significant milestone in the town’s efforts to deliver high-quality and affordable homes.
Cheltenham Borough Council (CBC) and contractor Speller Metcalfe gathered on 18 November to break ground at 320 Swindon Road in St Paul’s, where 24 new homes will soon take shape. With the site now cleared and foundation works commencing, diggers have moved in to kickstart the £6.2 million construction phase.
The development will include 17 apartments and seven houses, offered through social rent and shared ownership, helping to meet growing local demand for affordable housing.
Council leader Cllr Rowena Hay said: “We’re delighted to mark the start of this important journey to bring more affordable homes to the town. This flagship development reflects the high standard we strive for in delivering safe, good-quality housing that people can afford. It’s long overdue, and I’m excited to see the site take shape.”
Cllr Alisha Lewis, cabinet member for major development and housing delivery, said the project is a “significant step forward” for families struggling to secure a home.
“These properties have been designed with sustainability in mind, helping residents save money and reducing our environmental impact. We’re looking forward to vibrant outdoor spaces, thriving wildlife and a beautiful landscape for the community to enjoy,” she added.
Speller Metcalfe’s divisional director Mark Eaton said the project represents “an exciting new chapter” for the area.
“Our team is passionate about delivering high-quality, sustainable homes that support the wider community. It’s a privilege to help bring the council’s vision to life,” he said.
The development places strong emphasis on environmental performance, with solar panels, ground-source heat pumps and low-carbon construction methods included in the build. Biodiversity features such as wildlife-friendly planting, hedgehog highways and bat, bee and bird boxes will also be incorporated.
As part of the council’s social value commitments, the project is creating job opportunities for local people, supporting apprenticeships, contributing equipment to community projects and engaging with local schools to inspire future careers in construction and environmental stewardship.
The scheme, procured through Westworks’ framework and supported by Homes England funding, is expected to be completed in 2027.