Work has started to demolish outdated flats at Austin Road in Cirencester, making way for 14 new, energy‑efficient homes for social rent.
We are replacing two blocks of flats, numbers 26 to 36 and 38 to 48, which had become difficult to let and were no longer fit for purpose. In their place, 14 modern homes will be built: eight one-bedroom flats, four two-bedroom houses and two four-bedroom family homes.
Millie Nicholls, our Regeneration Project Manager, said: “This is a really exciting moment. These flats have served their time, but they no longer meet the standards our customers deserve. Replacing them with well-designed, energy-efficient homes is the right thing to do. It’s great to see the work getting started on site.”
Construction partner EG Carter, a family-owned firm based in Gloucester, is the principal contractor. Demolition contractor David Horton Contractors is carrying out the initial clearance works, with construction of the new homes expected to begin in spring.
Mathew Vye, Residential Director at EG Carter, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Bromford on this important regeneration project in Cirencester. Transforming this site into modern, energy-efficient homes will make a real difference for local people, providing comfortable, affordable places to live. It’s great to see the demolition works begin, and we’re excited to move into the next phase of construction.”
The homes, designed by Oakley Architects, will complement the surrounding streetscape and include sustainable features such as solar panels, electric vehicle charging points, and energy-efficient timber frame construction.
We began consulting with customers living in the affected flats in late 2023, helping residents move into suitable alternative accommodation. A community consultation event was held in July 2024, with the proposals receiving widespread support from locals and councillors.
Councillor Juliet Layton, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “This project represents a significant step towards delivering high-quality, affordable homes our communities need. By replacing outdated properties with modern, energy-efficient homes, we’re helping ensure long-term affordability and supporting low-carbon development.”
Sarah Orr, Mayor and Chair of Cirencester Town Council, said: “It’s great to see work has begun at Austin Road. After the success of the Paterson Road redevelopment, I think we are in safe hands. I look forward to seeing families enjoying their new homes.”
Councillor Mark Harris, a county, district and Cirencester town councillor, added: “This redevelopment is an important step forward for Cirencester. The new Austin Road development reflects the very best of what we can achieve: sustainable design, improved living standards, and a neighbourhood people can be proud to call home.”
Planning permission was granted by Cotswold District Council in July 2025. Families will begin moving into the first new homes in autumn 2027, with all homes expected to be completed by spring 2029.