217 new homes at former coking plant site raises concerns about increased strain on traffic, schools and health services

Hailed as one of the country’s most significant regenerations of a brownfield site, 217 houses will be built by Strata Homes, three new play areas created across the site and contributions from the developer will improve highways networks and education facilities.

Meanwhile, members of the public have highlighted the increased pressure that the new development will put on traffic, education and health services.

Tracy Shaw posted: “What are you going to do about the nightmare congestion on Derby Road and the oversubscription at the local schools? Affordable homes are a good thing, lack of amenities aren’t.”

Cheryl Smith wrote: “The new intake for Tupton Hall School is already full with a waiting list.”

Bamber Davison commented: “I think the schools and doctors and the roads should be the first thing they build so they can’t say that they have run out of money.”

Melanie Elizabeth wrote: “Traffic is a nightmare around there and instead of opening up the surrounding through roads that could ease the congestion on Derby Road all they seems to want to do is add more traffic lights and traffic calming measures.” Paul Hill posted: “More traffic which will make the proposed traffic lights at the top of Mill Lane even more of a road block.”

Residents were given the opportunity to comment before planning permission for the new housing development was granted. The feedback was closely reviewed and incorporated into the site design where possible, before planning permission was granted in June 2024.

The development – which is called Expression – will offer 150 homes for sale on the open market, 39 for affordable rent through Platform Housing, and 28 for shared ownership.

Housebuilder Strata has committed to an employment and training scheme as part of its agreement with Homes England. At least 25% of labour will be sourced locally and 40% of contracted work leveraged within the local supply chain.

This is the second phase of a development which began with Tilia Homes’ construction of 252 properties at the former Avenue coking works site.

Cllr Steve Pickering, cabinet member for planning at North East Derbyshire District Council, said: "This development will build on the new homes already being delivered in the area. This next stage of redevelopment also represents the positive regeneration of a remediated brownfield site, bringing it back into beneficial use. Through the planning process, we have worked to ensure the scheme provides a mix of housing and wider benefits for residents, including affordable homes and investment in local infrastructure."

Mark Leaf, chief growth officer at Strata, said: "Expression is a development we're incredibly proud to bring to Wingerworth. This was a site that had sat dormant for years, and we're excited to transform it into a vibrant new community that local people can be part of shaping. We've worked hard to ensure the development reflects the needs of the area, from the affordable homes we're delivering with Platform Housing, to the play areas, local employment opportunities and investment in the supply chain. We can't wait to see the community come to life."

Strata's show homes are due to open in October 2026, with the first homes ready for occupation from November 2026.