Plan for hundreds of new houses at former Whitley pumping station

THE former Whitley Pumping Station site in Coventry is set to be the location for hundreds of new homes.

Homes England, the Government’s housing accelerator, has acquired the land off London Road with a view to development.

The national housing agency is currently working with Coventry City Council’s planning team on proposals for the former pumping station site.

Land was allocated by the city council to help unblock the site as part of efforts to meet Coventry’s housing needs going forward.

The Whitley Pumping Station dates back to Victorian times and Homes England is keen to retain the historic building and bring it back into use by working with the council.

The site was at one point owned by Severn Trent, who submitted an application for a re-use of the former Whitley Pumping Station - turning it into apartments though that was put on hold.

Homes England said proposals for the site will be shared with the public as part of a consultation exercise in 2019.

Homes England’s involvement in the site will help to speed up delivery of the project.

The agency said a high quality residential development will benefit the local community.

Stephen Kinsella, executive director for land at Homes England, said: “Our role is to ensure more people in England have access to better homes in the right places.

“To make this happen we intervene in the housing market to build more homes where they are needed.

“We accelerate delivery and help to shape a more resilient and diverse industry.

“With a strong demand for new homes in Coventry, we are keen to work collaboratively with partners to ensure that we are meeting the needs of the community and this is an excellent example of how we are unlocking sites to meet those needs.”

Planning permission for the new homes, including affordable housing will be submitted to the city council.