TWO Huddersfield businesses are working together on a £750,000 residential property scheme.

Independent architectural consultancy Fibre Architects and building contractor Envicon Ltd have completed designs for the project to transform an old schoolhouse and the site of a former derelict school into a development of 10 houses at Brotherton, east Leeds.

The one-year contract will include building a series of three-bedroomed terrace houses, a bungalow and a detached house

All materials used for the new buildings will be in keeping with the style of the existing schoolhouse – while environmental sustainability and energy efficiency will also be important features.

The two companies have worked together before on several contracts, including a refurbishment project for charity Mencap in Kirklees which was completed at Easter. They are looking to work together on projects in the future – bucking the trend in a challenging construction industry.

Martin Booker, director of Edgerton-based Fibre Architects, said: “This project really shows that land has all sorts of hidden potential.

“Turning previously developed land into something more viable and maximising the return through well thought out and precise design is what we pride ourselves on.

“We’re thrilled that Envicon recognised the quality of our initial concept and look forward to seeing the project through to its completion next year.”

Said Mr Booker: “Working with other local companies is crucial in the more challenging market and, through our work with Envicon, we hope to drive growth for both businesses.”

Mark Ladocha, managing director of Envicon Ltd, which is based at Old Leeds Road, said: “We’re both relatively young local businesses who are looking to grow in more trying times and make the most out of an investment.

“The new development in Brotherton has a lot of potential and – with Fibre’s vision and design skills – we’re confident that a great return will be generated.

Fibre Architects is a consultancy with more than 20 years experience in a variety of sectors, including residential, commercial, health, transport, utilities, listed buildings and community.