Jones Homes named as builder behind best small development in West Yorkshire

The Orchards, a development of 30 homes in the picturesque village of Netherthong, in Kirklees, won the title in the annual awards hosted by Local Authority Building Control, known as LABC.

Judges looked at the planning, design and build processes, sustainability, innovation and customer satisfaction to determine the overall success of the development.

David Ruffley, Regional Director for Jones Homes Yorkshire, said: “Securing this award is a proud moment for Jones Homes Yorkshire. The Orchards has been one of our most technically challenging developments, yet also one of our most successful.

“Netherthong has been designated as a conservation area to preserve its character and charm. Our designs and choice of materials needed to reflect this and complement the architecture of the existing homes in the village.

“Accessing the site posed difficulties due to narrow streets and we strived to minimise inconvenience to people living in the village as far as possible.

“A close working relationship with Kirklees council was instrumental in delivering these homes on time and on budget.

“The result was a development which we felt truly enhanced the village and we are pleased that the LABC judges agreed.

“Some of the new residents at The Orchards were relocating to the area, while others had been looking to stay in the village but previously struggled due to a lack of available homes.

“The Government’s Help to Buy scheme provided a 20 per cent equity loan to some purchasers at The Orchards.”

Jones Homes created a stunning street scene of stone-fronted homes, with house types selected to offer a suitable mix of homes to meet local demand. Six of the homes were designated as affordable housing.

Jones Homes was revealed as the category winner on Tuesday (22/9) when the results were revealed. The annual awards ceremony could not be held due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Jones Homes Yorkshire has a long heritage in the Holme Valley. Work is currently progressing at the company’s Heather View development in Hade Edge.