Homes England has entered into a partnership agreement with Keepmoat and Capital&Centric to expedite the development and delivery of new homes and a mixed-use town centre.

These homes and town centre are located in Northstowe, which is situated near Cambridge. 

The latest agreement is set to result in the development of 3,000 new homes, with half designated as affordable housing, and the development of a mixed-use town centre in the region.

According to Homes England, the new project aims to provide enhanced housing options for rent or purchase for residents, bolstered by existing infrastructure, including roads and cycleways, provided by Homes England. 

The new town centre will encompass up to 50,000m² of commercial space, including work spaces, retail, and community facilities.  

Homes England will serve as the master developer for the final two phases of the 30-year project. 

Keepmoat, known for catering to first-time buyers, is building upon its success with the ongoing Stirling Fields development, which is on track for completion in late 2027.  

The company will continue to develop multitenure homes in proximity to the town centre.  

Meanwhile, Capital&Centric will take charge of designing and delivering the town centre, integrating contemporary apartments and low-carbon suburban homes under its 'neighbourhood' brand. 

The collaboration is expected to yield substantial community benefits, including employment opportunities, apprenticeships, and support for local entities.  

UK Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook said: “For far too long we have seen large-scale housing projects stuck in the planning system and that is why we will create a new taskforce to accelerate these stalled sites.  

“We will get Britain building again and work is already underway to unlock thousands of new homes in Northstowe. This includes giving Homes England the tools they need to deliver the next phase in Northstowe town centre so we can build the quality homes that this local community desperately needs.” 

Northstowe, which is being developed on the former Royal Air Force Oakington airbase, already houses approximately 3,000 residents and features schools, a park-and-ride facility, a sports centre, and other amenities.  

The construction of additional educational and sports facilities is currently underway.