Morris Property wins £4.4m contract to build Frith Close in Shrewsbury

Cornovii Homes, Shropshire’s council-owned housing company, has awarded local construction company, Morris Property, a £4.4 million contract to build Frith Close - a new housing development in Crowmoor, Shrewsbury.

On the site of a former care home, the development - consisting of 33 properties - will offer a range of high-quality 2, 3 and 4 bedroom detached and semi-detached homes and 1 and 2 bedroom bungalows. 21 properties will be available for reservation from Summer 2021. The remaining 12 homes will be available for affordable rent and shared ownership from winter 2021.

Morris Property, who is delivering The Tannery development at Shrewsbury’s West End, is currently undertaking enabling works on the site, with the build contract commencing in January 2021.

With environmental sustainability in mind, these new homes will be built to ‘Future Homes Standard’ resulting in at least 20% improved carbon efficiency than that of a conventional new-build. Additionally, the installation of specialist PV panels is planned to help customers save money on their electricity bills. Alongside superfast broadband and electric vehicle charging points, smart technology will also be incorporated into the homes so residents can control heating and ventilation systems through a mobile app.

James West, Chief Operating Officer at Morris Property, commented: “The team at Morris Property is thrilled to have won the competitive tender to build the Frith Close development for Cornovii Homes. As two dynamic, Shropshire-based companies, it is our mutual ambition to invest in our local communities. We will be working closely with the community, Shrewsbury College and the local youth club to offer work placements and apprenticeships under the guidance of our experienced team. We will also encourage our supply team to engage apprentices on the project.”

Harpreet Rayet, Managing Director at Cornovii Homes, said: “We are pleased to appoint Morris Property as the build contractor for our first major housing project, Frith Close. In line with our company values, the new homes will be built to our Eco specification as we aim to develop sustainable homes for the community of Shropshire. The appointment of a local construction company strengthens our commitment to supporting the local economy and enhancing employment opportunities. We hope this successful partnership is the first of many as we work alongside local businesses to develop high-quality homes across the county and invest in the Shropshire economy.

Robert Macey, Shropshire Council Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning and Housing, added: “It is pleasing to see Cornovii Homes reach this important milestone in working towards its purpose to develop much needed housing across Shropshire. Cornovii Homes’ commitment to supporting the local economy is welcomed and I look forward to seeing the benefits of the company’s activities realised by Shropshire’s Communities”