Land Sale Set To Support Delivery Of Much-Needed Homes In South East England
Land, development and property agency, Newton LDP has completed the sale of a prime development site, which is set to provide much needed new housing on the border of Hampshire and Berkshire.
The 50-acre site, known as Watermill Bridge, has been acquired by housebuilder Bewley Homes, with the sale being Newton LDP’s first with the Hampshire-based housebuilder.
The Site is in Newbury and Will Deliver 270 Homes
Located on the southern side of Newbury, the site benefits from a hybrid planning consent for 270 homes as well as placemaking efforts such as a community building, convenience store and a health centre.
George Fox, director at Newton LDP, said: “Given Watermill Bridge is on Bewley’s doorstep, this will be a flagship scheme for them, and with this will come a focus on creating a community, through the provision of the on-site amenities, as well as providing much-needed new homes for the area.
As an agency, we take pride in seeing how the schemes that we have sold evolve, and this one is no exception, as Bewley have a proven track record of building exemplar homes
Construction of the scheme is due to start in autumn 2025, with the first dwellings expected to come to market in autumn 2026. Of the 270 houses, 40% will be affordable, of which 25% will be designated as first homes.
Planning Process Sees Green Light for 82 of the Homes
Matt Roberts, strategic land manager at Bewley Homes, said: “I’m really pleased to share that Bewley has now completed the purchase of the Wash Water site in Berkshire, which benefits from planning permission for 270 new homes, including detailed consent for 82. This follows a determined and ultimately successful planning process, involving a positive appeal outcome and the dismissal of a subsequent legal challenge by the Local Authority.
“While the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, it’s a great example of perseverance paying off on a sustainable site that will deliver real benefits to the local community, particularly in a borough facing a significant housing shortfall and strong demand for affordable homes.
“We’re also proud to have delivered this positive result for both the landowners and their agent, whose support and patience throughout the process have been hugely appreciated.
“This is an important site for us and a valuable addition to the Bewley portfolio, providing a strong foundation for future delivery and long-term growth.”
Watermill Bridge is located just over three miles from the centre of Newbury and benefits from having local services and amenities in nearby Wash Common.
