A HOUSE building firm has opened a new office in York city centre in a bid to step up its activity in the region.

Alcuin Homes Ltd, named after English scholar Flaccus Albinus Alcuinus, who lived in York in the eighth century and was the second headmaster at St Peter’s School, has opened an office in Grade II premises in New Street.

Managed by two directors, Richard Marchant and Scott Waters, who have more than 30 combined years’ experience in residential property development with major companies, including Persimmon Homes and Redrow Homes, Alcuin Homes currently has schemes totalling £10 million at various stages of progress across Yorkshire.

The privately-owned company, founded in 2011, has completed its first scheme in York, a £1.3 millio development of four family homes at York Gardens, in Dunnington, and has a £1.2 million scheme for three townhouses in Minster Walk, Heworth, due for completion this autumn.

Mr Marchant said: "We’re pleased to move into York to demonstrate our commitment to North Yorkshire and chose the city centre to be close to other professionals as part of our strategy to target good high-quality locations and create bespoke homes and to use local professionals and suppliers wherever possible."

Mr Waters, adds: "Our financial backing means we are not reliant on bank funding. This places us in a strong position to move the business forward and means we are actively seeking new development opportunities, with or without planning permission, that meet our exacting standards."