The 'once-in-a-generation' regeneration of Newcastle town centre has taken a step forward as the contract for delivering new homes at the Ryecroft site has been exchanged.

The contract with McCarthy Stone will see around 50 private properties for the over-55s at the eastern end of the site.

McCarthy Stone, the UK's leading developer and manager of retirement communities. The company operates 530 retirement communities around the country and, subject to planning permission, this will be its first in Newcastle-under-Lyme.

James Hanna, Land Director at McCarthy Stone, said: "We are delighted to have worked in collaboration with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council over the last 18 months and we are looking forward to promoting our proposal for the Ryecroft site.

Hundreds of new homes are proposed for the town centre as part of wider regeneration plans (Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council).

"Subject to receiving planning approval, we intend to create a new vibrant community for older people in the heart of the town centre and alongside the remainder of the wider regeneration plans."

The scheme is part of the wider redevelopment of the Ryecroft site, which will see the 450-space Castle car park, a 100-bed hotel, while Joules Brewery has announced its intention to create a live music venue adjoining the Old Bulls Head.

Stephen Sweeney, Deputy Leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and Cabinet member for Finance, Town Centres and Growth, said: "This is a £30 million process which will eventually see the Ryecroft and York Place area contain homes, offices, shops and a hotel, plus public open spaces between Ironmarket and Merrial Street.

"Add the plan for more than a hundred apartments at the Midway site and there is an exciting vision coming together."

Plans for York Place are also progressing with Capital&Centric, demolition work is expected shortly and with the Midway car park site, which will be converted into apartments once Castle car park opens.

Simon Tagg, leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, said: "There has been national and international interest in the Ryecroft redevelopment and I am delighted that such a prestigious provider of homes is coming to Newcastle.

"The Ryecroft redevelopment is taking shape and along with other major developments which are going to change the landscape, this is going to boost our town centre economy and make it a more vibrant place to be."

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READ MORE: Nine council-owned sites in Stoke-on-Trent are to be declared 'surplus'

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