Clarion Housing Group has selected Galliford Try as delivery partner to construct 126 new social rented homes at the City Place site in Chester.
The £28 million contract for the development on Charterhall Drive, next to the Shropshire Union Canal and grade-II-listed Chester Shot Tower, will provide 23 one-bed and 103 two-bed high-quality apartments, helping to address acute local housing need. The scheme forms part of a wider City Place masterplan.
Subject to a planning modification, work is expected to begin in March 2026, with Latimer, the development arm of Clarion, overseeing delivery by Galliford Try. The scheme will be fully fossil-fuel-free, with all homes achieving a minimum EPC B rating and 100% EV charging provision.
Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said,
“This appointment is an important step forward in delivering 126 much-needed social rent homes for Chester. We are committed to working with Cheshire West & Chester Council to address local housing need, and this scheme will provide high-quality, sustainable homes for residents for generations to come. This all social rent development demonstrates the value of long-term partnerships and our determination to invest in communities where affordable housing is urgently needed.”
Darren Parker, Managing Director of Galliford Try Building North West, said,
“We are delighted to be underway with the City Place project on behalf of Clarion. This innovative new development will be an exemplar for sustainable living, and we look forward to working with Clarion to deliver the high-quality homes their customers deserve.”
