Approval has been granted by Cheltenham Borough Council for the creation of 266 new homes at Swindon Farm, Cheltenham.

The development, delivered by Persimmon Homes, forms the first phase of the North West Cheltenham Strategic Allocation, defined by the Joint Core Strategy of Tewkesbury, Cheltenham and Gloucester Councils. The consortium of Bloor Homes and Persimmon Homes are working collaboratively to bring forward the wider allocation later this year.

Contributing significantly to Cheltenham Borough Council’s housing land supply, 35% of the homes will be transferred to an affordable housing provider for rent and shared ownership.

As part of the development at Swindon Farm, approximately £7m will be paid to support infrastructure delivery and ensure economic development. These include highways, public transport, education, libraries and public open space contributions.

The development will be brought forward with sustainability at the forefront, featuring air source heat pumps and solar panels on all properties.

A spokesperson for Persimmon Homes South Midlands said: “We’re delighted to have received approval for our development at Swindon Farm and I want to thank Cheltenham Borough Council for their support. Not only will the development deliver 209 quality new homes, it will also create local jobs and apprenticeships as part of the construction, and generate a significant investment in the local economy.

“Crucially, our development at Swindon Farm will be a sustainable, no gas community – with air source heat pumps and solar panels being provided on all homes to ensure our community is delivered with consideration for the environment as the utmost priority.”