Builder lays the foundations for growth targets
ANORTHUMBERLAND housing developer is targeting £80m turnover and the creation of new jobs as it looks to add four new sites to its portfolio.
Ashington-based Ascent Homes – the housebuilding arm of Northumberland City Council’s regeneration body Advance Northumberland – has recently grown from 40 to 70 employees, but has ambitions to have more than 100 staff by next year.
The business has built 600 properties in the North East, including over 100 affordable homes, with current developments based in Alnwick, Blyth, Choppington, Ellington and Wooler.
Ascent Homes said it aims to more than double turnover from its most recent sales figure of £30m, by adding four new sites across the North East.
Director Paul Errington says it has plans to develop more homes in Berwick-upon-Tweed, Bellingham and Hadston this year, making it a contributor to the region’s economy by creating jobs and strengthening local supply chains, while also creating housing developments that can have a positive impact on communities. The expansion will bring the developer’s portfolio of sites to 14 by 2027, delivering around 1,300 homes.
Mr Errington said: “With our homes being in the stunning county of Northumberland, we have seen people across the UK showing an increased interest in our beautifully-located developments, especially since the pandemic.
“This has fuelled our ambitions for sustainable expansion, not just in Northumberland but across the wider region. Our growth is supported by newly-secured land opportunities, which will enable us to introduce new and affordable housing solutions to more communities across the region. Our turnover was circa £30m last year, and we are confident that we can double that in the next few years.
“A key part of our growth plan is focused on the expansion of our skilled team. By the end of the year, we’re aiming to increase our headcount to over 100 employees.
“It’s a very exciting time for Ascent Homes. Our next chapter presents lots of opportunities for locals, buyers, suppliers, and landowners. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to providing the right housing, in the right areas, at the right price for the people of the North East.”