Esh Construction has marked a significant milestone in construction on site at the Willow Bank development in New Earswick, as the first home has reached roof level on the new affordable homes.

Working in partnership with Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust (JRHT), the scheme will bring 117 new affordable homes to the outskirts of York, built on the land north of Willow Bank.

A topping out ceremony was held with key representatives from JRHT, Esh, City of York Council, and a local school to mark the milestone. The homes will include a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments and two and three-bedroom houses, designed to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families, with 60% allocated for social rent and the remainder being available to buy through shared ownership.

Simon Woodward, Operations Director at Esh Construction, said: “Reaching this milestone at Willow Bank is a significant moment for us at Esh, reflecting the skills and knowledge of our team, and the valued partnership with Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust.

“This scheme will make a real difference, and we’re proud to be delivering our flagship housing development in Yorkshire. These homes reflect our commitment to quality and sustainability, whilst putting the community at the heart of everything we do, and it’s amazing to be part of a project that will deliver lasting benefits in the area.”

Rich Thomas, Director of Assets & Investments from JRHT, placed the final roof element to officially ‘top out’ the development, continuing a long-standing building tradition.

He said: “It's fantastic to reach this milestone and see the first home at Willow Bank taking shape. These are more than just new houses. They will become homes where people put down roots, raise families, build friendships and contribute to the community. New Earswick was founded on the belief that everyone should have access to a good-quality home, and Willow Bank is the next chapter in that story. We are proud to be creating affordable homes that will help people live well and be part of a thriving community for generations to come.” 

Also in attendance were students from The Joseph Rowntree School, to see how the houses they helped name are taking shape. This visit marked the latest stage in a project that has given young people a real say in the future of the community, as they named the new house types for the development.

In May, students took part in a competition to name the house types at Willow Bank, and 87 entries were received from Year 8 pupils. The winning names – created by Annabelle, Talia and Riley – are The Burrow, The Nest, The Den, The Dam, and The Hideout.

The students were presented with prizes at the topping out ceremony in recognition of their contribution. Rosie Johns, Pastoral Manager at The Joseph Rowntree School, said: “The entire experience from the street naming to the ceremony has been so inclusive, exciting and valuable. We welcome the partnership between JRHT and The Joseph Rowntree School. One community working for families and the next generation.”

Alongside this, Year 10 students took part in a workshop at the Folk Hall earlier this year, where they were challenged to come up with street names inspired by the history, character and natural environment of New Earswick. Five student submissions were selected and have been put forward for consideration as part of the formal street naming process, giving young people a lasting connection to the development and its future community.

The scheme was carefully designed to reflect the unique character of New Earswick, while supporting residents’ wellbeing. Homes will feature energy efficiency measures, including triple glazing solar panels, and battery storage, along with convenient parking and attractive outdoor spaces. The development is supported by funding from Homes England.

The first homes are expected to be completed in 2027.