Persimmon announces new housing project for Newport29th May 2014

Persimmon Homes East Wales has purchased the 220,000 sq ft former Panasonic factory on Pencarn Way in Newport and plans to invest over £40 million in redeveloping the 18.5 acre site with the construction of over 225 new houses.

Andrew Crompton, Land Director for Persimmon said: “Our plans include the construction of homes to suit a range of buyers from those looking to get onto the property ladder for the first time to families seeking more space. Persimmon is now on site in over 30 locations across South Wales and this acquisition further consolidates our position as the leading house builder in Wales.”

Property specialists JLL and planning consultants Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners, together with solicitors Morgan Cole acted on behalf of Panasonic to co-ordinate a planning application for the residential development of the factory, which was closed in late 2012, and its sale to Persimmon.

Chris Sutton of agents JLL said: “Due to the specialised nature of this electronics factory, with an internal eaves height of just 13 ft in part, the team recommended to Panasonic that we consider redevelopment options, as demand for the original accommodation was limited. We worked closely with Newport City Council who engaged in a positive manner to process the outline planning application for residential within a short period of nine months; having safeguarded the Council’s position in terms of planning gain.”

Carol Jones, finance director of Panasonic System Networks Co UK said: “Panasonic successfully operated from the Duffryn site for over 25 years and the company is pleased to see that the site has now attracted a fresh round of investment for the city of Newport.”