Hundreds of new homes are set to be delivered at one of North East England’s biggest new residential developments after three housebuilders signed up to take the project forward. North East development firm Banks Property, supported by independent North East property consultants and land agent youngsRPS, secured outline planning permission
Former ice rink site has been cleared and will become a major residential led scheme of nearly 1000 homes, complete with associated amenities. Strettons and Vandermolen Real Estate are pleased to announce the sale of Rom Valley Gardens, a significant seven-acre site in Romford, Essex, for an undisclosed price. Previously
Birmingham City Council has named Lovell as preferred developer for the £1bn transformation of Druids Heath, paving the way for around 3,500 new homes alongside upgraded infrastructure, transport links and revitalised commercial and community spaces. Six miles south of the city centre, Druids Heath’s 1960s council housing is set to
Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “The inclusion of Heyford Park in the Government’s new towns programme shows a growing commitment to building not just more homes but better places – places with identity, infrastructure and long-term purpose. That’s exactly what we’ve been working towards at Heyford Park. “Our
Salix Finance is proud to be working in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) on an initiative to help decarbonise public sector buildings across the region. The new Public Building Retrofit fund (PBRf), launched and administered by GMCA, will provide grant funding to public sector organisations to support the
NHBC is supporting the Association for Rental Living (ARL) to deliver a webinar examining the processes and challenges associated with unlocking brownfield sites for mixed tenure development. Those attending the webinar will join experts from NHBC and the rental living sector to explore how complex sites are being transformed into
Construction firm GRAHAM has marked a key milestone in the Lakes Estate Renewal Project, as the first council tenants moved into their new homes in Milton Keynes. Awarded through the Pagabo Major Works Framework, the two-stage design and build contract represents one of the city’s first large-scale regeneration schemes. The
The first image and details of a flagship, eco-friendly housing scheme at Liverpool’s iconic Festival Gardens – which could see several hundred new homes created near to the Mersey waterfront – have been revealed. Liverpool City Council is seeking to create an innovative and sustainable multi-generational neighbourhood on one of
A major construction project is underway to deliver modern, sustainable Single Living Accommodation (SLA) for Army personnel at Baker Barracks, Thorney Island. Ground works have begun on three new SLA blocks at Baker Barracks, which will provide a combined total of 315 en-suite bedspaces: 242 for Junior Ranks, 47 for
Dorchester Living has submitted an outline planning application for the next phase of Heyford Park – marking a major step in the transformation of the former RAF Upper Heyford airbase into one of Oxfordshire’s most ambitious new communities. The vision is to create a self-sufficient, sustainable settlement offering up to
Hundreds of new homes are set to be delivered at one of North East England’s biggest new residential developments after three housebuilders signed up to take the project forward. North East development firm Banks Property, supported by independent North East property consultants and land agent youngsRPS, secured outline planning permission for the Kingston Village site last year, which will see over 800 new family homes being built on a 49-hectare site to the north west of Newcastle, including around 120 affordable homes. Since then, Banks Property and youngsRPS have been working to identify the housebuilders that will deliver Kingston Village – and now, Miller Homes, Stonebridge Homes and Banks Homes have all signed up to the project. The three housebuilders will also build the affordable homes element of the project before a registered social housing provider takes them on. The Kingston Village development, which was allocated for housing in the 2015 Newcastle & Gateshead Core Strategy and Urban Core Plan, will also feature a range of important community assets, including a new primary school, a local shop and cafe, allotments, a village green and substantial amounts of public open space. It will see a £178m investment being made in the North East economy, with hundreds of people being employed both in building the new homes and in the development’s supply chain. A wide range of contract tenders will be made available to regional suppliers through the project’s construction period. A network of public footpaths and cycle ways, including links to the Newcastle Great Park and other nearby communities, will also be put in place, while a ten per cent Biodiversity Net Gain will be delivered through the project and significant improvements will be made to the local road network, public transport links and wildlife habitats. Full details of all aspects of the scheme are now being finalised, with infrastructure work scheduled to start on site early next year. The first new homes are then expected to be available for sale in 2027. Russ Hall, managing director at Banks Property and Banks Homes, says: “Our vision is for Kingston Village to be an outstanding, vibrant community which will integrate successfully into the west of Newcastle. “Confirming the housebuilders who will help to create Kingston Village is a major milestone in its development, with the new assets that will be delivered alongside their homes being central to the creation of this inclusive, sustainable new community. “The importance of increasing the UK’s supply of high-quality homes, both to ensure people have the housing options they need in the places they want to live and to support the wider UK economy’s future growth, has never been clearer, and we’re proud to be part of a project that will have a significant impact on Newcastle and the wider North East in this respect. “When Graeme Bruce at youngsRPS first identified the site’s potential and introduced it to us, it sparked a collaboration which has since secured planning permission, attracted leading housebuilders and paved the way for one of the region’s most important housing schemes.” Graeme Bruce, managing director at youngsRPS, adds: “This is arguably the biggest single residential land sale in the North East in recent times. The sheer scale of the site, coupled with the intense interest it generated from both local and national developers, underlines its significance. “Bringing this project to completion has been the largest development sale I’ve handled in my career and one of the most professionally rewarding.” Ryan Lincoln, regional managing director at Miller Homes, said: “This represents one of the most significant and sought-after development opportunities in the North East and we’re proud to be part of the select group of developers to deliver it. “Set in a fantastic location, it will offer an exceptional place to call home – combining high-quality housing alongside well designed local facilities, supporting the creation of a vibrant and sustainable new community.” Steve Errington, managing director at Stonebridge Homes, adds: “Kingston Village is the largest project in Stonebridge Homes’ history, and we are proud to be delivering 354 of its new homes. Like in all our work, our focus will be on building premium, sustainable communities that will stand the test of time. “By combining good design and energy-efficient infrastructure, we’re creating homes that are environmentally responsible and part of a place where families can truly belong. We’re excited to bring this landmark development to life for Newcastle and the wider region.” For further information on the Kingston Village development, please visit https://www.banksgroup.co.uk/projects/kingston-village/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Former ice rink site has been cleared and will become a major residential led scheme of nearly 1000 homes, complete with associated amenities. Strettons and Vandermolen Real Estate are pleased to announce the sale of Rom Valley Gardens, a significant seven-acre site in Romford, Essex, for an undisclosed price. Previously the home of the Romford Ice Arena, planning permission has been granted for the site to become a new mixed-use residential led scheme, bringing much needed new homes and associated amenities to Romford. Acting jointly with Vandermolen RE, Strettons’ Agency team advised Strettons Receivers on the sale of the site to an undisclosed buyer. Rom Valley Gardens has a hybrid planning consent for a phased scheme of up to 972 dwellings, alongside a new medical centre, retail, café and resident amenities. The masterplan envisages seven blocks ranging from 2 to 12 storeys, providing flexibility across tenures and the scale to create a new community in central Romford. Aasia Pathan, Agency & Development Land Director at Strettons, said:“Rom Valley Gardens is a strategically significant site for Romford, with the capacity to deliver hundreds of much-needed homes as well as vital community facilities. With the Elizabeth Line just minutes away and planning consent already secured, it is well placed to transform this part of the town. We saw strong interest in the site and secured an unconditional exchange quickly, which reflects both the strength of the opportunity and the capability of the purchaser to move the project forward at pace.” Chris Rook, Land Director at Vandermolen RE said: “It’s fantastic to have secured another successful sale on behalf of Strettons Receivers. Rom Valley Gardens represents an exceptional opportunity to unlock over 970 much-needed homes in the heart of Romford. We’re proud to have been involved in re-energising this important strategic site.” Located on Rom Valley Way in the London Borough of Havering, the site is just 0.6 miles from Romford Station, offering fast Elizabeth Line services into central London. It also benefits from close proximity to Romford town centre’s retail and leisure offer, as well as excellent road and bus connections via the A12 and M25. Strettons’ Development Land Agency team acted jointly with Vandermolen RE. The transaction was completed on behalf of the Fixed Charge Receivers, Charles Kornbluth and Benjamin Tobin of Strettons. Charles Kornbluth said: “Well done to Strettons and Vandermolen RE agency teams, and thanks to Simmons & Simmons for their expert legal advice. I look forward to seeing the completed scheme which will greatly enhance the area.” Strettons are regeneration specialists, working on behalf of landowners and developers to realise the value of their assets. Their multidisciplinary in-house teams advise across all stages of development, from site sale and planning through to disposal of completed schemes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Birmingham City Council has named Lovell as preferred developer for the £1bn transformation of Druids Heath, paving the way for around 3,500 new homes alongside upgraded infrastructure, transport links and revitalised commercial and community spaces. Six miles south of the city centre, Druids Heath’s 1960s council housing is set to be replaced in phases, addressing what the council describes as the only large municipal estate in Birmingham to have missed major investment since it was built. The programme places affordability at its core: approximately 1,800 homes — 51% of the total — are earmarked as affordable. Of these, 400 are identified for delivery as affordable homes the council aims to let at social rent, with the remainder to come forward through partnerships with a developer and registered providers. An outline planning application submitted in March 2025 sets out a mixed community with homes for sale, accommodation designed for later living, new community and sports facilities, and a re-energised high street intended to serve as the area’s central hub. Work has begun on a partnership agreement between the council and Lovell, expected to be signed in spring 2026. This will define roles and obligations for delivering the long-term regeneration. Councillor Nicky Brennan, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said the appointment marked a landmark moment for residents: “This brings us another step closer to delivering the plan we have spent two years developing with the community. The regeneration will deliver thousands of high-quality, energy-efficient homes, with more than half affordable — helping to meet urgent housing needs.” Stuart Penn, regional managing director at Lovell, added: “Druids Heath represents the next chapter in our long relationship with Birmingham. This is about more than bricks and mortar — it’s about creating opportunity, improving lives, and working in genuine partnership with the council and the community to leave a lasting legacy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “The inclusion of Heyford Park in the Government’s new towns programme shows a growing commitment to building not just more homes but better places – places with identity, infrastructure and long-term purpose. That’s exactly what we’ve been working towards at Heyford Park. “Our development is one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the UK, and it’s shaped by a clear masterplan and a strong sense of place. From new homes and schools to community spaces, green infrastructure, local employment and plans to become the UK’s first energy-surplus town, Heyford Park is designed to grow in a sustainable and balanced way. We’ve already come a long way in transforming a former RAF base into a thriving, modern community, and the next chapter is about delivering on that original vision with ambition and care. “As momentum builds behind the new towns programme and strategic growth across the region, Heyford Park stands as a clear example of what’s possible when development is led by placemaking. This recognition gives us the platform to build on everything achieved so far and deliver create a long-lasting legacy for Oxfordshire.” For more details and to view the masterplan in full, visit: www.heyfordpark.com/heyford-park-masterplan Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Salix Finance is proud to be working in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) on an initiative to help decarbonise public sector buildings across the region. The new Public Building Retrofit fund (PBRf), launched and administered by GMCA, will provide grant funding to public sector organisations to support the installation of low-carbon heating systems and energy efficiency measures in their buildings. Salix will play a key role in the delivery of the fund by undertaking the technical assessment of funding applications. With up to £28 million of capital funding available between 2025/26 and 2027/28, the scheme will support Greater Manchester’s ambition to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reach net zero by 2038. This is 12 years ahead of the UK’s national target. This funding for GMCA has been delivered as part of the government’s devolution policy, providing mayoral authorities the tools to shape the future of their local areas, while improving accountability and building capacity across the local government sector. Salix chief executive Kevin Holland said: “We have built up extensive skill at Salix in delivering innovative, large scale and impactful decarbonisation projects across the public sector on behalf of government. “Our knowledge is valued across the sector, and we’re delighted to work with Greater Manchester Combined Authority on this new fund. “Our work on the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme equips us well to support GMCA through effective and impactful technical assessments, enabling the successful delivery of retrofit projects.” The fund will be delivered through a competitive application process, with several funding windows opening over the course of the programme. The first application window is set to open this summer, with additional dates to be announced later in the year by GMCA. The initiative aligns closely with national policy priorities, targeting the 9% of UK emissions that come from heating buildings. By supporting the replacement of fossil fuel-based systems and improving building efficiency, The Public Building Retrofit fund is expected to contribute directly to reducing energy consumption and improving comfort in public buildings. Kevin added: “Our partnership with GMCA shows our stakeholders the breadth of Salix’s capabilities and the value of our trusted expertise. “We look forward to building on this relationship and continuing to expand our impact across the public sector and beyond. “We’re on a mission at Salix and we’re committed to help the UK meet its ambitious 2050 net zero targets.” For more about Salix visit our website https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/ For full details about the Public Building Retrofit fund, visit the Public Building Retrofit fund – Greater Manchester Combined Authority Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NHBC is supporting the Association for Rental Living (ARL) to deliver a webinar examining the processes and challenges associated with unlocking brownfield sites for mixed tenure development. Those attending the webinar will join experts from NHBC and the rental living sector to explore how complex sites are being transformed into viable, successful Build to Rent (BTR) developments. Aimed at developers, investors, operators and consultants in BTR, this webinar, running on 23rd September 2025, will guide attendees through the journey from pre-acquisition assessment to post-acquisition viability, highlighting critical considerations and pitfalls to avoid. Insights will include: Experts from Placefirst and Urban&Civic will join speakers from NHBC’s Land Quality Service and BTR teams as part of a varied agenda which will cover the political landscape, sector collaboration and the hurdles the industry faces. Real life case studies will be used to illustrate the ways land can be unlocked and attendees will have the chance to pitch questions to the webinar’s presenters. This webinar will also explain NHBC’s role in the sector beyond warranty, demonstrating its expertise in technical services, site viability and risk mitigation. Suitable for anyone in the sector navigating constrained sites, repurposing opportunities or seeking practical guidance on land viability and delivery, this webinar has limited places available and those interested in joining should register now. Niki Kyriacou, Sector Lead for BTR at NHBC commented, “We’re pleased to support ARL in delivering this specialist webinar for those working in BTR looking to develop constrained or challenging sites. BTR is an increasingly important part of the residential mix – as the sector grows many of us recognise we need to unlock more brownfield sites to help meet demand. These sites offer a wealth of opportunity for developers and investors, and NHBC is committed to helping deliver quality homes at pace across BTR and all tenures.” NHBC works in partnership with developers and investors to bring forward challenging or complex sites that otherwise might have been considered unviable. Working hard to provide a pathway to warranty, saving time and money, NHBC provides confidence throughout the build journey. To register your place on the Unlocking brownfield sites for mixed tenure development webinar visit: https://thearl.org.uk/events/unlocking-brownfield-sites-for-mixed-tenure-development/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction firm GRAHAM has marked a key milestone in the Lakes Estate Renewal Project, as the first council tenants moved into their new homes in Milton Keynes. Awarded through the Pagabo Major Works Framework, the two-stage design and build contract represents one of the city’s first large-scale regeneration schemes. The project aims to revitalise the Lakes Estate by providing new housing, improved amenities and healthier living conditions. The latest milestone includes the completion of six homes at Burnmoor Close and 16 properties at A3, together with soft and hard landscaping, parking and electric vehicle charging points. In total, the scheme will deliver 183 high-quality, energy-efficient council homes alongside a new park and commercial spaces. The development has been shaped through years of engagement with local residents, whose input has helped to guide the plans. Earlier phases have already delivered a play park and improvements to shared courtyards. Cllr Ed Hume, Cabinet Member for Housing at Milton Keynes City Council, said: “We’re really pleased with how the project is shaping up. It’s fantastic for the residents who now have a good new home where they can settle and get on in life. This is an incredibly proud moment for the whole community. These new homes will make a real difference, providing families with high-quality housing which will help them in so many ways. We look forward to welcoming more families into their new homes as they become available.” Pat O’Hare, Regional Director at GRAHAM, added: “The handover of phases one and two at The Lakes Estate marks an important milestone in the development, and we are delighted to see the first new residents settling into their homes. With the next phase progressing well, we are excited to continue building momentum and look forward to handing over more homes later this year.” The Lakes Estate Renewal Project continues to progress, with more families set to move into their new homes as construction advances through the next phases. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The first image and details of a flagship, eco-friendly housing scheme at Liverpool’s iconic Festival Gardens – which could see several hundred new homes created near to the Mersey waterfront – have been revealed. Liverpool City Council is seeking to create an innovative and sustainable multi-generational neighbourhood on one of England’s biggest brownfield plots, which would complete the radical conversion of a former landfill site. In a report to Liverpool City Council Cabinet next week, approval is being sought to enter into a development agreement with award-winning companies Urban Splash and igloo Regeneration. They were chosen following a procurement process launched last Autumn and together have established a joint-venture company which proposes to deliver 34 different styles of build on the stunning riverside location. The report outlines a scheme which aims to maximise the use of renewable energy sources and cutting-edge construction techniques to minimise its carbon footprint, with a design approach that would showcase “a festival of housing”. Pending Cabinet approval, it’s expected a planning application for phase one to be submitted in late 2026 for the creation of 440 homes. This would include 80 extra care and 110 affordable homes – far surpassing the Council’s 20% target. If approved, build would begin in Spring 2027, with phase two and three to follow providing up to 800 homes in total. The proposed scheme, which has the backing of Homes England and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, would see an un-parallelled blend of diverse designs to accommodate a multitude of needs such as co-housing, social rent, mixed tenure family homes, retirement living and self-build. The groundbreaking project would celebrate both the legacy of the 1984 International Garden Festival and build on the colossal remediation of the 27-acre development zone. That saw more than 95% of the excavated materials recycled which in turn led to the creation of a new 37-acre park – Liverpool’s first of the 21st century. The planning application would follow a major public consultation exercise which would also feature in-depth detail on community facilities, high quality public open space and other infrastructure to cater for the needs of a growing residential and working population. The diversity of housing offer will come from several sub-developers that form part of the wider Urban Splash and igloo team. Extra care will be delivered by Alpha Living, affordable homes by the Regenda Group. Co-housing by TOWN with MMC provided by Starship. Urban Splash Residential Fund, Urban Splash and igloo will also deliver elements of scheme. Reaction Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “We have always wanted to deliver an amazing housing scheme befitting this stunning location. And I think the plans outlined in this report show that the ambition to do something truly special at Festival Gardens can and will be delivered. “The team of developers we’re looking to work with have a fabulous track record in delivering outstanding innovative and sustainable projects of the highest order. I can’t wait for our residents to see more details over the coming months and for them to have their input before the planning application is submitted next year.” Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “Festival Gardens has the potential to be one of the most exciting and transformational brownfield developments in the country – and I’m delighted to see it moving forward. “This is about more than just bricks and mortar, it’s about building the kind of place that people are proud to call home. We’re laying the foundations for a thriving new neighbourhood that reflects the kind of future we want to build – inclusive, innovative, and with our residents at its heart.” Jonathan Falkingham, MBE, co-founder of Urban Splash, said: “Festival Gardens is one of Liverpool’s biggest opportunities. It’s a huge privilege to have been selected as the city’s development partner on the creation of this new riverside neighbourhood. Our aim is to create a place for everyone and embrace the spirit of the original Garden Festival – showcasing outstanding housing design, innovative landscape strategies for healthier living, and building on the arts and cultural programme initiated 40 years ago. “We’re excited to work alongside our partners Alpha Living, Regenda, Town and Starship, together with six of the UK’s leading housing architects, Liverpool City Council, wider stakeholders and the local community to deliver an exemplar project that the city can be proud of, and we look forward to sharing more details of the project in the near future.” Peter Connolly, chief executive at igloo Regeneration said: “Festival Gardens is a landmark project that will create lasting impact for the city region, with a thriving new neighbourhood offering a diverse mix of homes to support people at every stage of life. It also brings together, under the JV’s leadership, a pioneering coalition of developers with a shared commitment to transform this iconic site into a community that’s sustainable, inclusive and built to last.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major construction project is underway to deliver modern, sustainable Single Living Accommodation (SLA) for Army personnel at Baker Barracks, Thorney Island. Ground works have begun on three new SLA blocks at Baker Barracks, which will provide a combined total of 315 en-suite bedspaces: 242 for Junior Ranks, 47 for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs), and 26 for Junior Officers. The modular blocks will be built using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) designed to achieve exceptional building energy efficiency. Sustainable design features include photovoltaic panels, air source heat pumps and a SMART energy management system, which learns how the building is used so that it runs as efficiently as possible. The project will also deliver over 400 car parking spaces with 20 electric vehicle charging points, increasing parking capacity at the barracks, while further supporting energy efficiency. The project is being delivered under the Army’s SLA Programme by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) contracting to off-site construction specialists Reds10. Major General Richard Clements CBE, Director Basing & Infrastructure, said: “The investment at Baker Barracks will provide modern, spacious accommodation that will enhance living standards for our people delivering important operational capabilities. These modular buildings deliver outstanding quality and comfort, incorporating soldier feedback into their design alongside sustainable technologies that support both our carbon reduction commitments and cost efficiency objectives.” Warren Webster, DIO MPP Army Programme Director said: “It’s exciting to see the start of preparatory works for this fantastic project as we work to improve military accommodation. Once complete, a significant number of the soldiers and officers based at Baker Barracks will enjoy brand-new, comfortable and sustainable accommodation.” Phil Cook, Defence Director, Reds10, said: “Through our close working partnership with the DIO, Reds10 is pioneering advanced technologies and techniques to deliver exceptional value at Baker Barracks. Utilising industrialised construction to design and build innovative, sustainable and high-quality living spaces, we are transforming the living accommodation for the armed forces at pace.” Further investment is planned at Baker Barracks under the Army’s Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Programme to support 7 Air Defence Group’s operational capability. The major infrastructure upgrade, currently in the critical design phase, includes an extension to the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Mess facility, additional office space, more efficient storage areas and upgraded secure storage. Construction is due to start in Autumn 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Dorchester Living has submitted an outline planning application for the next phase of Heyford Park – marking a major step in the transformation of the former RAF Upper Heyford airbase into one of Oxfordshire’s most ambitious new communities. The vision is to create a self-sufficient, sustainable settlement offering up to 9,000 homes – 2,700 of which will be affordable – alongside 900 assisted living units and 180 homes for key workers. These homes will be supported by new schools, community facilities, employment space and extensive green infrastructure. The housing crisis is not abstract. The housing crisis has a direct impact on homelessness, with more people pushed into temporary accommodation and rough sleeping because they cannot access secure and affordable homes. Across the county, over 164,000 children are homeless or living in temporary accommodation.[1] Without new, well-planned communities that provide genuinely affordable and accessible homes, housing insecurity will only deepen. Heyford Park is already a thriving place to live and work. More than 1,200 homes have been delivered to date, together with Heyford Park School for children aged three to-16, a supermarket, pharmacy, hotel, barbers, restaurant and a growing commercial cluster. Dorchester has focused on creating a place where people feel connected and supported. A wide range of social facilities bring neighbours together of all ages, including play areas, a pump track, outdoor football tables, tennis courts, and mini libraries. Heyford Park is home to a growing list of community activities, including the Heyford Makers Shed, yoga sessions, parental groups, a running club, and a thriving football club. This is just the start of the long-term vision for a vibrant, inclusive and active community. Building on this momentum, the pioneering masterplan will expand the community offering, delivering a new health hub, primary schools, a secondary school, dedicated sports facilities and employment space to support over 5,000 new jobs – many in CleanTech, low-carbon and creative sectors, providing sustainable jobs for the future. Improved connectivity and sustainable travel will underpin the settlement’s continued growth. A short journey from Heyford Station to Oxford, Heyford Park acts as a relief from housing pressure from Oxford City and supports regional growth. Plans include upgrades to Heyford Station and improvements to the Cherwell Valley Line service providing connections between Banbury and Didcot, alongside enhanced bus routes and walking and cycling routes to encourage residents to choose sustainable travel. Looking ahead, there is also an ambition to reopen Ardley Station, strengthening regional links to both London and Birmingham. Sustainability is at the heart of the masterplan. Dorchester Living will achieve a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain, with approximately 60% of the site dedicated to green infrastructure – connecting nature corridors, public parkland, walking trails and an area set aside as a Local Wildlife Site. The expansive Runway Park will serve as a multi-functional destination, offering a wide range of leisure opportunities. Framed by new woodlands and extensive landscaping, the park will be enriched by the planting of 65,000 trees, creating a vibrant and sustainable environment for generations to enjoy. The long-term ambition is for Heyford Park to become the UK’s first energy surplus town, generating more energy than it consumes through a combination of solar and wind power generation, energy-efficient design and low-carbon transport. This commitment to climate-conscious placemaking also responds to a wider regional need. According to the Housing and Economic Needs Assessment (HENA), Oxfordshire requires over 26,000 new homes by 2040 – with more than 16,800 needed outside Oxford City itself. While the city plans to deliver just over 10,000 homes by 2036, developments like Heyford Park are essential to meet demand while ensuring new communities are properly supported by jobs, infrastructure and local services from the outset. The plans have been shaped through extensive public consultation, with input from residents, schools, local groups and stakeholders. The masterplan has been developed by the award-winning practice, Proctor & Matthews Architects and renowned Landscape Architect Kim Wilkie, with sustainable movement strategies from Mode Transport Consultants. Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “This is a pivotal moment in the evolution of Heyford Park. The masterplan we’ve submitted is the result of years of careful thinking and extensive collaboration with a variety of different groups including Heyford Park Parish, Great Western Rail, Heyford Park Schools and the wider local community. This is underpinned by our genuine belief that growth can be delivered in a way that’s community-led and environmentally conscious. Our goal is to deliver something exceptional and exemplar for Oxfordshire, and a national blueprint for how towns can and should be delivered in the UK, a place that not only provides homes and jobs but supports a way of life that is healthier, greener and genuinely future proof. From green energy and biodiversity to education, care and connectivity, we’re laying the foundations for a community that will thrive for generations to come.” Stephen Proctor, co-founder of Proctor & Matthews Architects, commented: “Heyford Park presents a rare opportunity to rethink how large-scale development can respond to the social, environmental and economic challenges of our time. Our masterplan is built around a series of distinct neighbourhoods, each shaped by the site’s unique history and landscape. These new places will be connected by green corridors, walkable streets and shared public spaces – creating a sense of identity, belonging and long-term sustainability from the outset. Central to the masterplan design is the innovative reuse and integration of existing airfield infrastructure and historic structures. This approach will create a distinct urban landscape that reflects the site’s rich heritage.” Eleanor Wills, Great Western Railway added: “We’re always keen to work with communities to support growth in a way that helps more people choose rail over the car. We’re pleased to be working with Dorchester Living to strengthen sustainable rail connections at Heyford Park. The proposed improvements to Heyford Station will make rail travel more accessible, integrated and appealing for both new and existing residents. “ Subject to approval, Dorchester Living hopes to gain planning consent in early 2026. For more details and to