The Riverside

Key Project Information

Location

Ironbridge

Client

Housing Plus Group

Sector

Residential

Construction Method

SIPs

Duration

20 Weeks

Overview

The two‑bedroom affordable homes have been designed to support sustainable, low‑cost living, constructed using a SIPs frame to achieve excellent thermal performance. Each property includes solar panels, EV charging points and efficient heating systems, helping to reduce energy consumption for future residents. Internally, high ceilings create bright, spacious interiors, enhancing comfort and everyday living.

Situated within a World Heritage Site, the scheme was carefully designed to respect the character and historic significance of Ironbridge. The architecture and material palette draw on the local vernacular, ensuring the new homes sit comfortably within the Conservation Area and safeguard the site’s Outstanding Universal Value.

Environmental and community considerations were central to the project, with natural boundaries retained and the public footpath reinstated. Biodiversity enhancements have been introduced, including wildflower integrated turf to the front of the properties, alongside bird and bat boxes to support local wildlife.

Words from the client

Martin James, Development & Regeneration Manager at Housing Plus Group, concluded: "This scheme is a great example of what thoughtful regeneration can achieve. By transforming a long‑disused garage court into much‑needed affordable homes, we’ve been able to bring a neglected space back into positive use and strengthen the fabric of the local neighbourhood.

"Our focus has been on creating high‑quality, energy‑efficient homes that will serve residents well into the future, while enhancing the character and vibrancy of the area. Working with R1 Construction has enabled us to deliver a project that not only meets local housing needs but also contributes to the ongoing mission to create places people are proud to call home."

A sensitive and sustainable redevelopment that demonstrates how underused land can be renewed to deliver much needed, high quality homes in a historically important setting.

Ben Tomkinson, Managing Director at R1 Construction, said: "We are delighted to see the successful completion of this project. Transforming a disused garage court into two high‑quality, energy efficient bungalows has been a rewarding opportunity to support sustainable, affordable housing within the area.

"The team has worked incredibly hard to deliver homes built to modern standards, with a strong focus on reducing energy consumption for future residents. It has been a pleasure to work in partnership with Housing Plus Group throughout the process."

Josh Coleman, Commercial Director at R1 Construction, added: "This has been a really rewarding scheme to deliver. Working in a location like Ironbridge means we have to strike the right balance between modern construction and sensitivity to the local setting, and I think the team has achieved that well. Making effective use of a small, disused site to create affordable homes that both perform efficiently and complement the character of the area is something we're particularly proud of. It's great to see the finished bungalows ready for residents."