Construction has officially begun on a new affordable housing development in Sussex that will provide 124 energy-efficient homes for local people.
Leading affordable housing provider Stonewater joined representatives from housebuilders Thakeham at an event to mark the start of construction at Lower Horsebridge, Hailsham June 18.
The scheme is also being delivered in partnership with Wealden District Council and Baily Garner, supported by Homes England funding.
The homes will be provided across a range of tenures, including affordable rent, social rent and Rent to Buy. The scheme will comprise 22 one-bedroom flats, 8 two- bedroom flats, 26 two-bedroom houses, 57 three-bedroom houses and 11 four- bedroom houses.
Designed with sustainability in mind, all homes will benefit from a range of energy- efficient features including air source heat pumps, electric vehicle charging points, solar PV panels and water butts.
The development forms part of Stonewater’s ongoing commitment to delivering comfortable, future-proofed homes that help customers reduce their environmental impact and energy costs.
Marie Riodan, Director of Development (South & Central) at Stonewater, said: “The Lower Horsebridge scheme represents a significant investment in meeting local housing need in Hailsham, delivering 124 affordable homes for people who might otherwise struggle to access suitable housing.
At a time of growing demand, developments like this play a vital role in providing high-quality homes and creating sustainable, inclusive places. The mix of tenures and homes will support people at different stages of life, while complementing the character of the local area.
We’re proud to be working in partnership to deliver a development that not only provides much needed homes but also contributes positively to the existing community. We look forward to welcoming new Stonewater customers to Lower Horsebridge.”
Calum Semark, Chief Production Officer at Thakeham said: “We are delighted to be formally getting underway at Lower Horsebridge. We are building the foundations for this fully affordable development – and we look forward to creating a new, integrated community, handing over high-quality homes to our partner, Stonewater, in due course.”
In line with Stonewater’s public art initiative, a piece of public art is also planned for the development to help foster a sense of pride, identity and community among future customers.
The scheme is expected to be completed by summer 2028.