The latest stage in Brentwood Borough Council’s ambitious regeneration scheme to build new high-quality and sustainable homes in Hutton has been marked with a groundbreaking ceremony as construction starts at Brookfield Close.
The new scheme will deliver 62 zero-carbon homes, comprising 46 one to three-bedroom flats and 16 two to four-bedroom houses. All homes will meet or exceed national space standards, including homes designed to be wheelchair accessible and built to Lifetime Homes principles.
Previously home to 49 properties, including outdated apartments, sheltered bedsits and temporary accommodation, the site is being transformed into a vibrant, inclusive neighbourhood.
This regeneration is about more than just bricks and mortar. It promotes sustainable living through a fabric-first approach, ground source heat pumps, solar panels, and enhanced landscaping. The development also includes sustainable drainage systems and generous green spaces, including play areas and allotments, to support wellbeing and community interaction.
The project brings wider social and economic benefits too. Regional employment and training opportunities are being created through contractor partnerships, while new homes will help reduce fuel poverty and improve health outcomes through better air quality and thermal comfort.
Located within walking distance of Shenfield Station and local amenities, the scheme aims to encourage low-carbon lifestyles with improved pedestrian safety and increased cycle storage.
Demolition was completed in spring 2024 with enabling works also complete.
Construction began this month, following the award of the build contract to award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group. The project has also been successful in securing grant funding through the Homes England’s Affordable Housing Programme, helping to ensure delivery of high-quality homes for local residents.
Following the ground-breaking ceremony, Councillor Dr Tim Barrett, Chair of the Housing, Health & Community Committee at Brentwood Borough Council said, “Our ambitions are to build modern, safe, healthy and green standard homes, delivering the council homes that our communities urgently need.
“We are investing to positively transform lives for the better for generations to come and it’s great to have the support of Homes England’s Affordable Housing Programme to help us deliver these homes.”
Shahi Islam, Director - Affordable Housing Grants at Homes England, added: "As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting Brentwood Borough Council to achieve their ambitions.
“This is a key milestone in the development of Brookfield Close and a prime example of how we work collaboratively with partners to achieve our mission to drive regeneration and housing delivery to create high-quality homes and thriving places.”
Robert Jack, Regional Director for The Hill Group, comments: “We are pleased to mark the official start of construction at Brookfield Close with a groundbreaking ceremony with Brentwood Borough Council. This project represents a shared commitment to delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes that will serve the community for generations.
“At Hill, we are passionate about creating sustainable, inclusive places to live, and we look forward to delivering homes that not only meet modern standards but also contribute to improved wellbeing, lower energy costs, and a greener future.”
The build is expected to be completed within two years.