Topping out ceremony at site of former Matalan store in development set to provide 526 new homes in Stevenage

The Guinness Partnership, one of England's largest housing associations, held an event to celebrate topping out of the first phase of their development at the former Matalan site in Danesgate, Stevenage - a development which will eventually provide 526 new homes. 

The development at the prominent town centre site was granted planning permission in 2021 by Stevenage Borough Council for the provision of a new high quality residential community, designed by award-winning architects Maccreanor Lavington. 

The overall plan involves the construction of 526 one and two-bedroomed apartments along with 739 sq. m of flexible commercial space located at street level which aims to create active street frontages. 

Kevin Williams, group director of development and commercial services at The Guinness Partnership said: "Topping out is a significant milestone in the regeneration of this site which will bring 526 new homes to Stevenage, and we are pleased to be delivering high-quality, affordable housing for the area.

"We would like to thank our partners on this project, Homes England, Stevenage Borough Council, Lovell Partnerships, Turner & Townsend and Maccreanor Lavington who have all helped us get to this important stage."  

With funding from Homes England, the first phase of development consists of two buildings providing 143 one and two-bedroomed apartments.

All the new homes will be offered as affordable tenures, including social rent, providing new and much needed low-cost homes in the heart of Stevenage. 

Councillor Jeannette Thomas, deputy leader of the council and executive member for housing and housing development, added: "This phase of works focuses on the building of affordable homes.

"Our thanks go to The Guinness Partnership for the speedy delivery of these.

"Alongside homes, the development brings a wide range of other benefits that will support the town centre, and current and future residents.

"Our town centre needs a variety of uses so it can continue to thrive. As a council, we strive to deliver the best for Stevenage and this development is an example of that."

The first phase is expected to complete by the spring of 2025. 

Mick Laws, regional managing director at Lovell said: "We are delighted to be celebrating the topping out at this latest development we are delivering for The Guinness Partnership.

"We are making excellent progress in line with our programme and are on target to deliver the much-needed affordable homes early next year." 

To mark the occasion, Mr Williams, councillor Williams and Mr Laws were joined by departing Stevenage MP, Stephen McPartland, the deputy leader of Stevenage Borough Council, councillor James Brown, and councillor Sandra Barr.