The Hill Group has reached a significant regional milestone after securing planning permission for three separate developments in the South East. The approvals will see the delivery of 268 new homes across Essex, Oxfordshire, and Hertfordshire, including 113 affordable properties, as part of the firm’s ongoing commitment to increasing housing supply and creating mixed-tenure communities.

• Takeley, Essex

In Takeley, Hill has been granted approval for a 108-home project on a 16-acre site at Parsonage Road. The development features a mix of two-to-five-bedroom houses for private sale, alongside affordable apartments and houses. This approval includes replacing a previously planned 66-bedroom care home—now deemed surplus to requirements—with 20 residential units, in addition to reserved matters approval for 88 homes.

The scheme adopts a fabric-first construction approach and integrates sustainable technologies such as air source heat pumps and electric vehicle (EV) charging points. Located on the M11 corridor near Stansted Airport, the site offers strong transport links and proximity to local amenities.

• Kidlington, Oxfordshire

Planning permission has also been secured for 96 homes in Kidlington, forming part of a larger 430-home strategic allocation. Fifty per cent of these homes will be designated as affordable, delivered in partnership with SNG to include social rent, affordable rent, and shared ownership options.

The project is the culmination of seven years of planning and will provide community infrastructure, including sports and play areas. Furthermore, half a hectare of land will be gifted to the parish council to allow for the extension of the local cemetery. Construction is expected to start shortly, with the first completions slated for 2027.

• Welham Green, Hertfordshire

In Welham Green, Hill has obtained full planning permission for 64 homes on a 2.7-hectare site. The project represents a successful release of land from the Green Belt through the local plan process. The village-style layout will include two-to-four-bedroom homes, landscaped open spaces, and a fully equipped play area.

Like the other sites, these homes will feature air source heat pumps and EV charging. The location provides excellent rail links, with direct services to London taking less than 40 minutes.

Andy Hill OBE, Founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, commented: “Securing three planning permissions across the South-East in such a short period is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the expertise and persistence of our teams. These developments will deliver a diverse mix of high-quality homes, including a significant number of affordable properties, helping to meet pressing local housing needs.

“Each scheme reflects our commitment to working collaboratively with local authorities and stakeholders to create sustainable, well-designed communities that leave a positive legacy.”

Work across the three sites is scheduled to begin between the spring and summer of 2026.

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