A major housing development near Leighton Hospital in Crewe is moving ahead at speed and will deliver more than 200 affordable homes.

Housing association, Plus Dane, is working with housebuilder Vistry on the Leighton West development.

The site forms part of a wider masterplan close to the hospital and is a key element of Cheshire East Council's local plan.

Work began in early November 2025, with construction already underway on 26 homes in the first phase of 116.

Housing association, Plus Dane, is working with housebuilder Vistry on the Leighton West development (Photo: Plus Dane).

Vistry says modern construction methods and timber frame panels have helped drive rapid early progress.

Homes England has also confirmed funding for land that will make up the next stages of the scheme.

Leighton West will eventually deliver 791 homes. Vistry will build 408 of these, including 208 for Plus Dane.

Of the Plus Dane homes, 123 will be for social rent. A further 85 will be available through affordable home ownership.

The development will also include green spaces and community facilities. These will feature allotments, orchards, footpaths, cycleways, play areas, outdoor gyms and green corridors.

Executive director customer, communities and homes for Plus Dane, Chris Morris, said: "We are delighted to see such rapid progress on the Leighton West site, as we are eager to be able to provide more much-needed affordable housing in Cheshire East.

"Plus Dane has a strong track record in delivering good quality new homes within strong and vibrant communities.

"Our current growth strategy aims to see us building 250 homes a year, and Leighton West will be a big part of us achieving those aims in the coming financial year."

The Leighton West development will also include green spaces and community facilities. These will feature allotments, orchards, footpaths, cycleways, play areas, outdoor gyms and green corridors (Photo: Jonathan White).

Developers will contribute £5.6m towards local services and infrastructure, supporting a new local centre with community and leisure space, a pub, children's day nursery and land for a primary school.

Funding will also go towards highways, cycling improvements, NHS support and Travel Plan monitoring.

Managing director, Vistry Manchester and Cheshire East, Matthew Parkes, said: "We are pleased to be on site at Leighton West and to see strong early progress.

"This is an important development for the area and will play a significant role in boosting local housing supply.

"Partnering with such a respected housing provider in Plus Dane means we can create a sustainable mix of high-quality homes that genuinely meets local need."

READ MORE: Police make 232 arrests in Crewe and Nantwich over festive period.

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