Farnham Road Regeneration
Transforming Farnham Road
believe housing is redeveloping the former Farnham Road site in Newton Hall, Durham, delivering 22 new affordable homes to meet local housing need and deliver a modern, sustainable neighbourhood for future residents.
The New Development
Planning permission has now been approved for a £5.5 million regeneration project that will transform the site with:
- 22 affordable homes
- A mix of 2, 3 and 4-bedroom houses
- 3 two-bedroom bungalows
- Homes available through:
- Social Rent
- Rent to Buy
- Shared Ownership.
The development has been designed to support families, older people, those with mobility needs and aspiring homeowners.
The new homes will be high quality, energy efficient and accessible, featuring:
- Air source heat pumps
- Solar panels
- Electric vehicle charging points
- Secure bike storage
- Wider doorways
- Adaptable layouts to support changing mobility needs.
The scheme also includes:
- Improved walking routes
- Open green space
- Parking provision
- Retention of existing trees where possible.
Planning Approval Secured
On 14 July 2026, Durham County Council’s Area Planning Committee unanimously approved the plans, recognising both the quality of the development and believe housing’s collaborative approach throughout the project.
Tom Winter, Assistant Director of Development at believe housing, described the approval as a significant milestone in delivering much-needed affordable housing and delivering an attractive, sustainable place to live.
Why the Original Homes Were Demolished
The homes at Farnham Road, known as Calder homes, were built in the early 1960s as temporary accommodation for workers at the Durham Passport Office.
Over time, their non-traditional construction, including timber frames and asbestos cladding, made them increasingly difficult and costly to heat, insulate and modernise.
While the decision was difficult, extensive refurbishment was not considered a practical or cost-effective long-term solution.
What’s Next?
The former homes have already been demolished by RE:GEN North East, which has also been appointed to construct the new development.
Subject to funding from Homes England, construction is expected to begin before the end of 2026, bringing new affordable homes to this popular Newton Hall location and delivering a neighbourhood that will benefit residents for generations to come.