Major milestone reached on Brighton's 222-home council housing development
Construction is progressing on Moulsecoomb's ambitious housing scheme, which will deliver much-needed council homes and a new community hub for Brighton residents.
New homes taking shape in Moulsecoomb
Brighton and Hove is celebrating significant progress on one of its most important housing projects. Construction is well underway on a major development in Moulsecoomb that will bring 222 new council-rented properties to the city, alongside a vibrant new community hub.
Counsellor Gill Williams, cabinet member for housing at Brighton and Hove City Council, expressed her delight at seeing the project come to fruition after years of planning. "This development is something myself, our team and residents have been talking about, thinking about, dreaming about for so many years," she said. "I can't quite believe I'm seeing it all coming together."
The council leader emphasised the urgent need for these homes. "The new 222 council homes are homes the city desperately needs. This is going to help hundreds of people to find a place where they will live and thrive."
Design inspired by local heritage
The scheme comprises eight housing blocks and four pairs of four-bedroom semi-detached townhouses, all designed with residents' needs in mind. Every home will have access to private outdoor space, and the development includes 15 fully wheelchair accessible properties, plus 20 "Mobility 2" units offering partially adapted accommodation.
The new community hub, inspired by Moulsecoomb's industrial heritage, will be a real focal point for the area. It will house a GP surgery, pharmacy, library, youth centre, adult learning facilities, and a community café—bringing essential services and social spaces together.
More than just homes
Beyond the housing and hub, the development offers genuine community benefits. The wider scheme includes a skate park and a 7-a-side 3G football pitch, catering to local young people. The streets within the new development will be named Flintfield Drive, Thorncroft Close and Chalkvale Mews.
The finished development will feature landscaped public areas, pedestrian routes linking to a nearby primary school, and excellent transport connections via nearby bus stops, Moulsecoomb train station, and the Brighton BikeShare scheme.
Local opportunities created
The project is already making a real difference to local people. Wates Residential has provided 11 work experience placements and created 43 local roles, giving residents genuine opportunities to gain experience and employment.
Barry Williams, regional operations director at Wates Residential, highlighted the human impact of the development. "Even while construction is still in its early stages, the impact of the regeneration is already being felt. Hearing from young local people on site about the confidence and experience they're gaining through work placements was a powerful reminder of the opportunities a development like this can create."
The scheme's thoughtful design was shaped by extensive community engagement, with over 200 residents contributing their views during 'planning for real' sessions. This collaborative approach has ensured the development truly reflects what local people need and want from their neighbourhood.
Source: Major project bringing hundreds of council homes to Brighton reaches milestone