The Joint Venture between PfP and Barratt Redrow will create six interconnecting villages on the outskirts of Gilston in East Hertfordshire which will be set within 660 hectares of public open space, restored historic parkland, meadows and woodland.

The scheme will deliver 8,500 homes, at least 1,950 of which will be affordable, significantly contributing to the area’s long-term housing strategy and helping to ease pressure on local families, first-time buyers and key workers.

The project is also forecast to generate over £6 billion for the UK economy, creating thousands of local jobs, apprenticeships and new opportunities for local businesses. Plans also include 29,000 sqm of commercial space, alongside schools, leisure facilities, community hubs and over 15km of heritage trails.

Peter Blake, who leads the National Development Consultancy team within the Savills Operational Capital Markets (OCM) division, and Andy Redman, director in the Chelmsford office’s Development team, advised PfP throughout the deal. JLL acted for Barratt Redrow.

Peter said: “The agreement brings together PfP’s master developer expertise with Barratt Redrow’s reputation as the UK’s leading homebuilder and represents a step change in how new communities are delivered – highlighting the strength of collaboration and ambitious thinking.

Andy added: “The development promises to provide much needed new homes while supporting the existing community with additional facilities and outside space and we look forward to seeing how the plans come to fruition.”

Greg Reed, CEO of Places for People said: “Our vision for this development is a new blueprint for modern garden towns, shaped by deep community insight and a commitment to doing things the right way from day one.

“By combining Places for People’s long-term stewardship and social value approach with Barratt Redrow’s exceptional capability to deliver homes at scale and like-minded approach to social value, we can accelerate one of the most significant new communities in the UK.

“This partnership unlocks delivery at a pace and scale that neither organisation could achieve alone and ensures we deliver the infrastructure, green space and high-quality homes that people deserve.”

David Thomas, Chief Executive at Barratt Redrow, added: “Working with Places for People offers the opportunity to show what large-scale, responsible, community-led development looks like.

“Our new joint venture will deliver up to 8,500 new homes, featuring our three brands, Barratt Homes, David Wilson Homes and Redrow, plus Places for People, so giving customers the best possible choice for their new home. This is a once-in-a-generation project where we can create a modern garden town, connecting people to nature, and growing with the community.”