Woodlark Place: Stunning newbuild homes in Finningley, Doncaster, available through shared ownership

Woodlark Place is a 23-home new-build plot situated in the glorious surroundings of Finningley in Doncaster.

The properties are currently available to purchase under a shared ownership scheme, which allows buyers to own a percentage share of the property alongside the developer, Guinness Homes. The scheme is designed to make it easier for people to get on the property ladder.

Hellyn Fairbrother, regional sales manager at the company, said that the three-bedroom properties available would be a great opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds from West Yorkshire.

She said that upon visiting the picturesque, rural village before development started in 2023 she was “genuinely blown away”.

“It’s the first time myself and the team have worked in the area,” Hellyn said. “When we came up on the train from London, we couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. We all said that if we didn’t have families then we would move up ourselves.

“The people we met from the moment we arrived were just so warm and friendly and there was such a nice mix of character and scenery.”

There was a clear need for decent and affordable housing in the area, she said, and Guinness Homes, a not-for-profit housing association with a history dating back over 130 years, were more than able to provide.

Once development of the 23 homes started on the plot, which was previously owned by Doncaster Airport, she said that there was interest from people of all backgrounds and that since launching in April, 11 homes have now been secured.

Hellyn said: “We started going up for open events and the people we met ranged from their 20s to their 70s.

“We had a nice steady stream of enquiries and now seven households have moved in and four have been reserved.”

She continued: “It’s a great development because there’s so many different types of people moving there and it’s right in the heart of Finningley.

“We have young couples just starting out and older couples downsizing. It’s also a great option for divorcees or single people looking for a change.”

Hellyn also explained that the shared ownership scheme gives more people the opportunity to get on the property ladder. The scheme allows buyers to purchase a share, usually between 25% and 75%, of the property while paying a subsidised rent on the remaining share.

Hellyn explained that buyers can purchase more shares in the property as their income circumstances change and that while Guinness Homes also part-owns the home, it means they will be covered by a 10-year structural warranty.

Each of the 12 remaining homes are traditionally built and features its own back garden, two parking spaces, generous sized bedrooms, a stylish bathroom and a Moore fitted kitchen.

Hellyn added: “All of our buyers have been surprised by how spacious the houses are and what they are getting for their money and deposit.”

Finningley also acts as an idyllic living spot, with a local pub, a convenience store with a post office and a takeaway. It is popular with walkers and is home to a well-established family of peacocks which often wander the local streets.

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Hellyn said: “We are really proud to be in Finningley and to be helping local people get on the housing ladder.”

Doncaster city centre is also just six miles away, and offers an array of shops, restaurants and attractions while also being having great public transport links to the likes of Leeds, Wakefield and Sheffield. The wonderful Yorkshire Wildlife Park is also just a 6 minute drive, offering the perfect family day out.

For more information about the properties and shared ownership visit the Guinness Homes website.