The AMP sits as part of the overall 700 acre (280 hectare) Waverley site, a former surface coal mine that is being transformed into a thriving new community for the future.
A key part of the project has been launched with the opening of the first phase of housing on Waverley. The launch ceremony was undertaken by the Deputy Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr John Foden along with legendary former England goalkeeper, Gordon Banks, who worked as a coal bagger at the former Orgreave pit site before starting his professional football career.
Eventually the site will see the establishment of a new community of around 4,000 homes, shops, restaurants, schools, leisure facilities, health and community centres and parks.
Waverley aims to create over the next 20 years a development of a new residential and business community in between Sheffield and Rotherham in the heart of the Sheffield City Region.
The first phase of housing begun in spring 2012 with Taylor Wimpey, Harron Homes and Barratt Homes selected as development partners to deliver the first 250 homes. This will include a range of family houses and will be the catalyst for the development of a further 3,600 homes on over 160 acres of remaining residential development land.
Landowners Harworth Estates have worked closely with the house builders to assist in the planning process and to ensure the first phase of development is of a good quality in design and landscaping to help shape the future of the site.
Duncan Armstrong-Payne, Waverley development manager for Harworth Estates said; “We’re delighted to have launched the first phase of housing at Waverley, and have worked hard with the house builders, the local community and other stakeholders including Rotherham Council to bring this project forward. Its great that our partners and stakeholders share our vision for Waverley and are prepared to proceed with us in what is still a difficult economy.”