A COMMUNITY-BASED development of brand-new homes in Minchinhampton has received one of the UK housing industry’s most sought-after accolades.

The £9.5 million housing scheme of The Paddocks and Old Common Mews won the Bronze WhatHouse? award for Best Partnership Scheme.

These 66 new properties were delivered by Lovell Homes in partnership with Stroud District Council (SDC).

The highly celebrated scheme provided the area’s first new council homes in 30 years alongside high-quality housing for sale.

Comedian and actor David Walliams presented the award to the joint team at a ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.

Leonie Lockwood, business development manager at SDC, said: “This development incorporates the first council homes we have been able to build for decades, so it’s terrific to see the very start of our new build programme begin with an award.

“Mixed schemes such as this are essential in helping us build sustainable and successful communities.

“Our tenants moved in exactly a year ago, so this award is a great way to mark the anniversary of their first year in their new homes.”

The housing scheme delivered 66 one, two, three and four-bedroom homes.

Just over half of the houses are for SDC for shared ownership and rent, while the remaining 31 homes are for sale by Lovell.

Lovell national sales director Justine Elliott said she was ‘incredibly proud’ of the scheme.

“This is a stunning demonstration of just how much a successful partnership approach can achieve,” she said.

“This new community-based development of open market, rented and shared ownership homes, built and designed to a very high standard in a sensitively landscaped setting, has brought fresh energy and life to this part of Minchinhampton.

“Ensuring the development is firmly rooted in the local community has been a priority, with initiatives supporting local organisations and providing training opportunities, creating a lasting legacy of benefits.

“To see the industry experts recognise the partnership’s achievements with a What House? Award really is the icing on the cake.”

Through the strong working partnership with Stroud District Council, residents were closely involved in shaping the new development.

In addition Lovell supported a range of community initiatives including working with Minchinhampton Parish Council to provide a new bench for local residents and backing Minchinhampton School’s campaign for safe driving near the school.