Work complete on affordable development in Downhill

We are delighted that work is now complete on our affordable development at Crosstree Park, in Downhill.

Working in partnership with EQUANS and Homes England, the £7.4 million development consisting of 41 two, and three bedroom houses and two bedroom bungalows, has now welcomed all residents into their new neighbourhood.

The development was the launch pad for our Shared Ownership product. The scheme makes it easier for aspiring homeowners to buy an affordable share in a new property. 10 of the homes have been purchased through Shared Ownership and the remaining 31 have been let for affordable rent, which is calculated at 20% less than market rents for the area.

Speaking of their new home at Crosstree Park, one of our Shared Ownership customers said:

“Being a homeowner has given me a huge boost and feeling of achievement, which I am eternally grateful for. I can plan now and know that I have something that is mine.

“The house is absolutely beautiful, no expense spared, superb quality throughout including built in appliances and new carpets and flooring. A huge thank you to for allowing my dream to become a reality.”

Joanne Gordon, Development Director said:

“To hear what it means to our customers to get on the property ladder and make their dreams a reality is exactly why we are committed to building affordable homes for the people of Sunderland.

“For us, delivering affordable homes is about more than simply building new homes. By creating safe and secure housing we’re not only transforming the area, we’re giving families a place they can call home.”

Darren Sterling, Regional Director at Equans (North East), said: “We’re delighted to have completed work on such an important scheme, in partnership with a key partner in Gentoo.

“Crosstree Park is a stunning development that will provide much-needed affordable housing for the people of Downhill, and we’re proud to have been involved in such a project.”

Gentoo wants to play a part in addressing the housing crisis by delivering high quality affordable homes. Through our Affordable Homes Programme, we will deliver 738 additional homes to the city by 2029. The homes will be available for Affordable Rent, Shared Ownership and Rent to Buy.

Read more information on our Affordable Homes Programme. 

Latest articles

8 September 2026

Gentoo invests in Sunderland's future as 14 new apprentices begin their career

We have welcomed 14 new apprentices to the organisation, reinforcing its commit...

3 September 2026

We have been recognised for putting people and customers first with Shine Foundation Award

We have been awarded the Shine Foundation Award by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, re...

28 August 2026

Where can you find us this September?

Our teams are always out and about in neighbourhoods, meeting customers, listening to feedback an...