Published on Friday 21 March 2025
Work to create a 'pivotal’ housing development near Poole is on track – with residents expected to move into the 110 home development at Hillbourne by summer 2026.
The frames have been completed on the first houses and, to mark this, a topping-out ceremony has taken place.
Representatives from Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, Homes England, and Wates visited the site to see the progress for themselves.
The ceremony took place on 17 March with Cllr Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services, given the honour of placing the final tile on one of the house’s roofs.
Cllr Wilson said: “It is fantastic to get on-site and see the progress being made at Hillbourne.
“This development is pivotal for the local community and plays a crucial part in our vision to provide high-quality, affordable and energy efficient homes for our residents.
“We’re delivering a comprehensive package of investment into Hillbourne and the surrounding community and it is brilliant to see Wates matching this commitment by supporting local jobs, apprenticeships and suppliers.
“I am looking forward to seeing this development further progress and welcome its new residents next year.”
The scheme comprises of 40 two-bedroom homes, 41 three-bedroom homes, and an independent living apartment building with 29 one-bed flats – 40 houses will be shared ownership properties with the rest being social rent.
Homes are designed to exceed the 2025 Future Homes standard - a Government initiative that makes homes more energy efficient and reduces carbon emissions.
The multi-million development is expected to provide a £24million boost to social value - by providing new jobs, supporting local apprenticeships and work placements, and sourcing materials from local suppliers.
Lee Bushell, Southern Regional Managing Director at Wates Residential, said: “Hillbourne isn’t just about building homes. It’s about creating a vibrant, connected community where people can thrive.
“These energy-efficient, affordable homes will provide security for generations, while our investment in local jobs, apprenticeships, and businesses ensures the benefits go far beyond the site itself. This project is a testament to the power of partnership, and we’re proud to be working alongside BCP Council and our partners to bring this vision to life.”