English Partnerships invites Bellway, Crest Nicholson, Midas, Redrow and Urban Splash to next stage of 7 ha South Yard Enclave redevelopment in Devonport.

National regeneration agency, English Partnerships has shortlisted five developers to bring forward the redevelopment of the South Yard Enclave site in Devonport, Plymouth.

An outline planning application was submitted to Plymouth council in June 2005 to transform the 7.3 ha site, previously owned the Ministry of Defence, into a mixed-use neighbourhood comprising high-quality new homes, shops, offices and community facilities.

Following much interest from development companies, the agency has shortlisted the following (based on their track record and ability to deliver design quality and sustainability as well as their experience of community engagement):

The selection process has been led by international property adviser GVA Grimley and the next stage will be to invite the shortlisted developers to prepare and present their in-depth submissions by the end of November. A preferred development partner will be chosen by English Partnerships, with support from Devonport Regeneration Company, the Housing Corporation and Plymouth council, to work with the community to develop the site. By Christmas 2005 the development partner will have drawn up a programme of action that will bring forward the first phase of construction.

The entire scheme is likely to take between eight and 10 years to build. Throughout the process the developer, in partnership with English Partnerships and the Devonport Regeneration Company, will be required to engage effectively with the local community as well as key stakeholders, including Plymouth council, the Government Office for the South West, the South West Regional Development Agency and the Housing Corporation.