Herefordshire’s housing plans one step closer to delivery

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Thursday, 27 July 2017 22:32

Keepmoat appointed as ‘preferred bidder’ to work in partnership with the council to realise housing targets.

Herefordshire Council’s ambitious plans for growth are a step closer to delivery with the appointment of Keepmoat Homes Ltd (Keepmoat) as a ‘preferred bidder’ to become the council’s partner developer at cabinet today, Thursday 27 July 2017.

Keepmoat, once officially appointed, will contribute to the delivery of 800 homes for Hereford city centre and to the housing targets set for the county, of which a significant number will be enabled by the Hereford Bypass.

As a partner developer, Keepmoat will use local labour and the local supply chain, creating jobs, apprenticeships, training and education opportunities in the construction industry.

Councillor Harry Bramer, cabinet member contracts and assets said: “The appointment of Keepmoat as our preferred bidder and subsequently our partner developer means that the council retains its ability to raise capital from the council’s land holdings, whilst controlling the nature, speed and character of the county’s development.

Keepmoat will provide support for local businesses, third sector groups and the community as well as improving skills and educational attainment through training and apprenticeships. This in turn will enable the development of new economic activity to address the problem of low wages in the county.”

The council has appointed its ‘preferred bidder’ and ‘reserve bidder’ after a competitive tender process.