The body has bought 34 hectares for its South East Warrington Urban Extension, for an undisclosed sum, which brings the amount of land it owns in the area to around 250 hectares of land.

It says: “The newly acquired land, near to Stretton, is critical to the entire development’s success, making it possible to put essential access infrastructure in place which unlocks the delivery of the whole allocation.” 

The agency plans to build up to 4,200 new homes, 30% of which will be affordable, alongside schools, health facilities and green spaces. 

It will complete a site-wide development framework this year, laying the groundwork for future planning applications. 

Homes England Chief Property Officer Alison Crofton says: “This acquisition is the culmination of focused work by the team and represents a brilliant place opportunity.

“This is a clear example of Homes England’s unique role to enable, deliver and demonstrate effective placemaking at scale.” 

Warrington Borough Council cabinet member for housing services Cllr John Kerr-Brown adds that the move,” supports our ongoing work to deliver high-quality housing – including affordable homes – in every part of the borough, meeting local demand and supporting Warrington’s growth”. 

Last month, Homes England led a £96.7m deal to develop a major residential scheme near Leeds city centre.    

That five-acre site on Kirkstall Road will house 618 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments set across five buildings in landscaped grounds, including a new public space next to the River Aire.