Construction of a new relief road for Sowerby Bridge has moved a step closer after the appointment of two key contractors to develop the scheme.
Calderdale Council is working with its development partner, Genr8, to deliver the Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley regeneration scheme. Genr8 has appointed Buckingham Group Contracting Limited to deliver the next phase of infrastructure, earthworks and land remediation works on the site.
This includes the construction of a new highway linking Hollas Lane with Holmes Road, which is being part funded with £2.2m of grant funding secured by Calderdale Council from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for the Yorkshire and Humber region.
The scheme will build on initial work completed in 2013, which included the construction of a new highway spur from Wakefield Road; the replacement of the old Sterne Bridge and a number of flood defence works.
These new flood defences are already protecting Sowerby Bridge and Copley Valley areas. The next phase of infrastructure works will see further flood defences put in place which will provide additional protection, including a new flood storage area.
Taylor Wimpey, one of the leading housebuilders in the UK, has also been appointed by Genr8 and will deliver the residential development on the ‘Island Site’ on the north bank of the River Calder, demonstrating significant private sector confidence in the Sowerby Bridge and Copley area.
Leader of Calderdale Council, Cllr Stephen Baines MBE said:
“This is a great example of a public and private sector partnership working together to bring real improvements to the community.
“The relief road will ease congestion and reduce journey times, boosting our local businesses and encouraging new businesses to re-locate to the area, bringing additional employment. The scheme will also help unlock land for much needed local housing.”
Genr8 Partner, Richard Ingham, said: “Our selection of Taylor Wimpey as delivery partner for the Island Site is another significant step forward in the delivery of the Sowerby Bridge Copley Valley project. We have always believed that the site offers a great opportunity to deliver high quality family housing within a fantastic environment and our appointment of Taylor Wimpey is excellent news for the project. We are now looking forward to delivering the next phase of infrastructure which will prepare the site for both the residential and employment developments.”
Taylor Wimpey Land Director, Ian Thompson said: “Taylor Wimpey Yorkshire are delighted to be working with Genr8 Developments in delivering high quality housing as part of this mixed use scheme. The site provides an exciting opportunity to strengthen our presence within Calderdale and assist in regeneration, for the benefit of the Sowerby Bridge and Copley Valley area.”