Plans in for Bristol Flat-Pack Homes Scheme

Plans for 173 low-cost modular homes in Bristol have been submitted by Ikea and Skanska-owned BoKlok.

The development, if approved, would be one of the company's first in the UK along with other sites earmarked in Worthing and Peacehaven, near Brighton.

The site earmarked for the scheme lies to the north of Airport Road. The application proposes the demolition of existing buildings to make way for the new dwellings, as well as infrastructure works including a new bridge over Brislington Brook.

BoKlok focuses on constructing low-cost homes from a small number of materials with efficient, modular manufacturing methods. Its philosophy is to provide those with lower incomes the chance to purchase their own homes.

The company said in a design and access statement submitted to Bristol City Council that its affordability scheme is based on how much residents can afford to pay after taxes and living expenses.  

If planning permission is granted, all of the homes will be built in a factory and craned in to the site.

Of the 173 units, 121 homes will be sold on the open market and 52 will be classed as affordable.

BoKlok, jointly owned by Ikea and Skanska, says that its manufacturing process results in homes that are both higher-quality and more affordable than those that could be built traditionally.

It has operated in Sweden and Europe since 1995. It expects its first UK developments to be completed next year.