A former shopping centre site in Burton upon Trent has been transformed into a £20.8 million affordable housing development.
Social housing landlord Trent & Dove has officially opened Tyldesley Court, a flagship scheme in the town centre delivering a mix of homes for older residents and families.
The development includes 72 one- and two-bedroom apartments for people aged over 55, alongside ten three-bedroom family homes and nine ‘general needs’ apartments, all available for rent. All the apartments for over 55s have already been let.
The development replaces the former Bargates Shopping Centre, which was demolished in 2010 after years of decline. Before that, the land had been home to a brewery.
Ursula Bennion, CEO at Trent & Dove, said: “Tyldesley Court represents a significant investment in Burton upon Trent and demonstrates what can be achieved when strong partnerships come together with a shared commitment to tackling the shortage of affordable housing.
“By transforming a long-derelict site into a vibrant new neighbourhood, we’re delivering high-quality homes for over 55s and families that enable people to live well and remain connected to their local community.”
The scheme has been supported by a £6.6 million grant from Homes England, secured through Trent & Dove’s strategic partnership with Orbit.
The Mayor of East Staffordshire, Kim Smith, unveiled a commemorative plaque at the opening ceremony, and councillors and stakeholders were given a tour of the completed homes.
The development has been designed with additional support features, including pull cords in every apartment, a portable call unit linked to a 24/7 warden service, fob entry systems and video access to allow residents to screen visitors.
Tyldesley Court, which overlooks the River Trent, was delivered by Morro Partnerships, working alongside BPN Architects, Gleeds and Stanbridge Interiors.
Charlie Riley, Development Director at Trent & Dove, added: “Bringing together the expertise of Trent & Dove, our strategic partners at Orbit, Homes England, and the wider project team, highlights how vital partnership working is to the benefit of not only our customers but also provides a boost for local businesses.
“Developments like this are crucial as the demand for high-quality, affordable homes for people over 55 continues to grow. Providing the right homes at the right time not only supports residents to live independently for longer, it also helps free up family housing and strengthens the wider housing market.”
The project has also supported the local economy, with local suppliers used during construction, alongside apprenticeship opportunities and links with schools.
Future residents were involved in shaping elements of the scheme through a Founders’ Group, helping to choose designs for kitchens and communal areas.
The development takes its name from Sir Thomas Tyldesley, who led a charge across Burton Bridge in 1643 during the English Civil War and was later knighted by King Charles I.
