125 homes approved on Weardale Steelworks site Wolsingham

Homebuilder Bellway is to build the homes on the 13.7-acre site off Durham Road in Wolsingham after Durham County Council granted planning consent.

Bellway purchased the land on August 9 and now says that it will build a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom houses, as well as some two-bedroom bungalows at the scheme, which will be called The Old Foundry. 

The homes will be made up of 112 for private sale, and 13 affordable homes for rent or shared ownership.

An artist impression of how the houses will look once built (Image: BELLWAY)

Plans were originally put forward for 120 homes, but these were amended so that a greater number of smaller homes could be included.

Outline planning permission was given in 2022 for up to 151 homes on the site.

Frank Lincoln, Managing Director of Bellway Durham, said: “The issuing of detailed planning permission for this site is an important moment for this area.

"The steelworks closed down more than 15 years ago and so making good use of this large brownfield site to create much-needed homes for people is very positive.

“We have been working closely with Durham County Council to make sure that our development delivers what this area needs while making the most of the former steelworks site.

Most read:

• 'Frightening' stats reveal repeat knife offenders 'walking free from court'
• Three top restaurants attempting to become best in the UK at national awards
• Detailed new images show future vision for historic Darlington station

Get more from The Northern Echo and stay informed with a digital subscription. Click here to find out more.

“The Old Foundry development will provide energy-efficient, well-designed homes built to a high standard, as well as public open space that will be beneficial to new residents and the existing community.

"It will be an example of regeneration at its best and we are looking forward to starting work.”

The former Weardale Steelworks site was used for more than 140 years from 1864 to 2008.

With planning permission now in place, construction work is due to start in September and the first homes are due to be released for sale in January 2025.