news story

Dreams turn to reality for 1st East

An attractive waterfront development of about 40 new homes for a rundown area of Great Yarmouth is set to become a pioneering development for EEEGR client 1st East.

The homes are intended as the initial first phase of the urban regeneration company’s much grander plans to transform an entire stretch of riverside named Bure Harbour Quay.

Work could start within 18 months on what will become the first physical building project to be realised by 1st East - news welcomed by chief executive Philip Watkins as a major milestone in the company’s life.

“The waterfront regeneration in the Cobholm area of Yarmouth is planned in several phases and will completely revitalise this stretch of the riverside, making it more attractive and providing access to the waterfront,” he said.

Erica Whettingsteel, 1st East’s project manager, said: “We are demanding high design standards from the successful developer but we are also offering a lot of support through contributions being made by Great Yarmouth Borough Council, the East of England Development Agency and the Homes and Communities Agency.

“Once the developer has been appointed they will be required to consult with the residents of Cobholm on the proposals.

The Cobholm riverside was earmarked as one of 1st East's action areas - rundown sites needing help to stimulate regeneration - after it was set up in Yarmouth and neighbouring Lowestoft four years ago.

Richard Wright, Chairman of 1st East said, “It is a good example of the public sector all pulling in the same direction to help facilitate private sector delivery of the homes.”