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

A group of eight people standing in front of a red Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service fire engine, with a multi-storey residential building in the background.
20 October 2026

Former tower blocks to become training ground for hundreds of firefighters

Ahead of their demolition, three former tower blocks will support specialist hi...

19 October 2026

We have joined regional partners to shape the next generation of North East leaders

Leaders from across the North East have come together to begin the Common Purpose North East Mult...

Aerial view of Cricketers Hill development, showing newly built homes and streets within the award-winning housing scheme.
8 October 2026

Cricketers Hill named Best Affordable Housing Development at national awards

We're delighted to have won Best Affordable Housing Development at the Housing Executive Awards 2...