Cobalt makes mark at Halsnead Garden Village

The housing association will acquire 66 properties from Vistry within the wider 1,600-home Whiston masterplan. 

Vistry, which secured planning approval for 120 homes earlier this year, will handover 66 of them to Cobalt Housing upon completion. 

The Lickers Lane scheme, located on eight acres north of the M62, will provide a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom houses and apartments. 

Cobalt’s properties will be available for affordable rent and Rent to Buy. Vistry will sell the remaining 54 homes on the open market under its Linden Homes brand.  

Gemma Hardy, managing director of Vistry Merseyside and Cheshire West, said: “We are absolutely committed to creating vibrant, mixed-tenure communities that address local housing needs.  

“Partnering with Cobalt Housing at Lickers Lane allows us to provide high-quality, affordable homes within the Halsnead Garden Village masterplan. This development is set to significantly benefit the local area, offering a range of housing options that support sustainable community growth and inclusivity.” 

When the plans were approved in May, only 20 of the 120 homes were earmarked as affordable. 

This was less than the 20% required by policy. At the time, Vistry argued that a 16.7% delivery was in line with viability concerns. 

Initial enabling work on site has begun and Vistry is expected to hand over the new homes to Cobalt by March 2026. 

Louise Davies, executive director of communities and regeneration at Cobalt Housing added: “We are delighted to have entered into contract with Vistry on this significant scheme. 

“This is a key milestone for Cobalt as we work to achieve one of our key corporate priorities to deliver 1,000 new homes over the coming years. This development supports our aim to invest in core neighbourhoods and beyond to provide much needed affordable homes.”