New social housing developments offers more than just homes for its residents

A multi-million-pound housing development in Bournemouth is helping to support the local community by providing new local jobs, careers advice sessions for children, and free cooking classes. 

Work is underway to deliver 110 low-carbon and energy efficient homes at the  Hillbourne housing development, with the project due for completion this summer.  

The development will consist of 40 two-bedroom homes, 41 three-bedroom homes and an independent living apartment building with 29 one-bed flats.  

As well as exceeding the 2025 Future Homes Standard, the development is expected to generate £24 million in social value for the local area. 

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is working alongside Wates Residential Construction and local partners to create employment opportunities, support apprenticeships and maximise the use of local suppliers and materials. 

More than 800 children and young adults, aged 7-18, have benefitted from careers information, advice and guidance events, whilst eight apprenticeships and five work placements have been supported. 

By the end of the project, it is anticipated that 24 placements will be provided and 13 apprenticeships supported. 

Hillbourne’s housing development will also deliver economic and environmental sustainability; 400 trees have been planted so far with nine allotment beds to follow; and starting this month will be a series of free budget cooking classes to support local families.