110 new sustainable and affordable homes will be delivered in Poole by BCP Council and Wates Group, bringing new investment and generating millions in social value for the local community.
The scheme provides 40 two-bedroom homes, 41 three-bedroom homes and an Independent Living Apartment Building with 29 one-bedroom flats. These will be a combination of social rent and shared ownership.
Designed with modern living in mind, the Hillbourne housing development will deliver high-quality, low carbon and energy-efficient homes that will exceed current regulations by 68%. The scheme is designed with shared space to reduce traffic speeds and give pedestrians priority, creating a vibrant and accessible neighbourhood. The development will also be landscaped, including 61 newly planted trees and 200m of native hedging. A wildlife pond and bird/bat boxes are included to enhance the existing wildlife.
The safe and secure homes will achieve a minimum Secured by Design rating of Silver, with highly visible parking, a layout designed to provide passive surveillance and a communal area for families with young children to meet friends and neighbours.
The development will deliver £24m of social value in terms of employment, training and development opportunities, including 13 new apprenticeships for local people. Wates Group will also generate £6m of local spend and work opportunities for SME businesses through the local supply chain, with 60 hours of the company’s time also being committed to supporting local community, voluntary organisations, and charities.
Cllr Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services said: “The Hillbourne scheme is great news for the residents of Poole and the wider conurbation.
“I am delighted that the scheme is now progressing to construction phase. Building works are due to start in May this year and are expected to be completed by the summer of 2026. The scheme has now been allocated a £7.84m grant from Homes England, this is a much-welcomed contribution to a project which is a key part of our new-build strategy.
“This site is a huge part of our continued vision to provide good quality homes that are sustainable and affordable for all our residents.”
Barry Williams, Project Director, Wates Group commented: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with BCP Council to deliver much-needed affordable homes, that achieve outstanding energy efficiency, in Poole through the Hillbourne development. This scheme exemplifies our joint commitment to creating sustainable communities and providing homes that meet the needs of residents both now and in the future — reducing energy bills and supporting local supply chains.”
Construction works on the Hillbourne development are now set to commence and once finished, the development will provide much-needed affordable housing for local residents, contributing to the long-term prosperity and sustainability of the area.
