Supporting Derby’s young people

A major new affordable housing development in Derby, designed by Pelham, NCHA’s in-house architects, is helping transform opportunities for young people entering independent living.

Known as Foundry Point, the scheme has been delivered in partnership with YMCA Derbyshire and provides 60 fully furnished, self-contained apartments for residents aged 18 to 30 who are in employment, education or training.

Built by Tanbry Construction on Cotton Lane on a former Rolls-Royce estate, the development brings new life to an underused brownfield site, underlining a strong focus on regeneration and community impact.

Designed around young people’s needs

Pelham played a key role in shaping the scheme, designing a single three-storey block of one-bedroom apartments tailored to young people on lower incomes.

Each flat includes a bedroom, en-suite bathroom and open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, combining practicality with modern design. The homes are fully furnished to reduce upfront costs and are designed to be energy efficient and economical to run.

Mike Price, Senior Architect at Pelham, said: “We're proud to have partnered with YMCA Derbyshire on Foundry Point to design and deliver much-needed affordable housing for young people in Derby.

“This development demonstrates the value of collaboration in creating high-quality homes that are both accessible and sustainable for the future.”

Tackling a growing housing challenge

The development responds to increasing barriers faced by young people accessing housing, particularly those with limited rental history or lower incomes.

Foundry Point helps address this by offering affordable rents of around £671 per month, including utilities such as broadband and water, providing greater financial certainty.

Beyond housing, the scheme supports residents to build independence, sustain employment and progress into long-term housing.

Transforming a site and a city

By redeveloping a former industrial site into a modern residential community, Pelham has delivered a project that combines thoughtful design with social value.

The development includes green space, parking and sustainable features such as electric vehicle charging points.

As Foundry Point welcomes residents, it demonstrates how architecture can address housing challenges, supporting young people into independent living while revitalising a neglected site.