Habiko lodges Warrington town centre plans
The affordable homes-focused partnership between Pension Insurance Corporation, Muse and Homes England has submitted proposals for 240 homes across two six-storey buildings off Academy Way.
Habiko’s first submitted application seeks consent for 100% affordable housing at the scheme, which sits immediately south-east of the Time Square district, effectively representing phase two of that scheme.
AHR is the architect and Stantec the planning consultant. The professional team also features landscape architect Gillespies, project manager Hive Projects, cost consultant Abacus, building services engineer Hannan Associates, structural engineer Curtins, Design Fire Consultants, and Rappor providing air quality consultancy.
Owned by Warrington Council, Academy Way has been identified as a strategic location for affordable housing, benefiting from strong public transport links, walkable routes and town centre proximity.
The buildings will include one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent, arranged around a central landscaped courtyard for residents to enjoy.
Launched in November 2024, Habiko focuses on delivering low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes for rent. The organisation launched consultation on Warrington and on 350 Chester homes last autumn, and has also pushed forward a Solihull project this year.
The Warrington scheme features a central courtyard. Credit: planning documents
Joel Chandler, senior development manager at Muse, said: “We’re pleased to be bringing Academy Way forward as part of our commitment to delivering affordable, sustainable homes for rent where they’re needed most.
“The opportunity at Warrington will help address the growing demand for quality housing, and our team is focused on creating a development that not only meets this need but also makes a positive contribution to the local community and its future growth.”
The application marks the first Habiko scheme to be submitted for approval, kickstarting the partnership’s plans to develop a target of 3,000 affordable and sustainable homes over the next 12 years.
Greg Dickson, Stantec’s regional practice lead for planning in Northern England said: “These plans are very much in line with our focus on delivering positive impacts for communities.
“We’re proud to have played a key role in shaping this sustainable, affordable, highly connected, and future-focused development which will turn a derelict site into vibrant new homes.”
The Academy Way scheme is car-free due to its central location.
Documents relating to the scheme can be viewed on the council planning portal, reference 2026/00196/FULM.
