Work begins at former Marley Tiles site – regeneration project moves into remediation phase ahead of 60 new homes in Northumberland
November 2025, Northumberland – Story Homes has commenced on-site works at the former Marley Tiles factory site near Ebchester, marking the start of the remediation phase for its new 60-home development in Northumberland, Newlands Hurst.
Following the resolution to grant planning permission by Northumberland County Council earlier this year, work has now officially moved into site remediation – a crucial phase that will continue throughout 2026, laying the groundwork for construction of the new homes to begin thereafter.
The redevelopment of this brownfield site represents a significant investment in the local area and will see the transformation of a long-vacant industrial site into a high-quality residential community. The scheme will deliver 60 four to six-bedroom homes from Story Homes’ premium Signature Range, bringing the housebuilder’s renowned design quality to this unique setting on the County Durham border.
The homes have been carefully designed to reflect the local landscape and character of the area, with three distinctive zones – The Farm, The Village, and The Woodland – each featuring bespoke architectural detailing and landscaping to create a strong sense of place.
As part of the planning approval, Story Homes will also deliver over £1.2 million in community contributions through a Section 106 Agreement*, supporting education, transport and open space improvements, as well as an offsite affordable housing contribution. The scheme will also provide new bus stops on the B6309 and a £300,000 bus service subsidy to enhance public transport connections for surrounding villages including Whittonstall, Dilston and Slaley.
Amanda Stephenson, Head of Land at Story Homes North East, said:
“The start of remediation work at the former Marley Tiles factory marks a key milestone in the regeneration of this site and the next step towards bringing much-needed new homes to the area.
“This is an important project for Story Homes and the North East region, representing both a significant investment and a long-term commitment to sustainable, high-quality development. We’re proud to be transforming a disused industrial site into a thriving new community that reflects the character of the local area while delivering meaningful economic and environmental benefits.”
The development will feature extensive landscaping and biodiversity enhancements, creating new habitats for wildlife and delivering sustainable design features such as electric vehicle charging facilities, low carbon heating systems and triple A-rated appliances.
Once complete, the scheme will create lasting benefits for the local economy through the use of regional contractors and suppliers, as well as generating employment and demand for local services throughout the build phase.
For more information, visit www.storyhomes.co.uk.
*A Section 106 is a legal agreement between an applicant seeking planning permission and the local planning authority, which is used to mitigate the impact of any new homes on the local community and infrastructure.