News story

Development Manager appointed for Berkshire military site

The transformation of an obsolete garrison site will provide thousands of much-needed homes in south-east England.

• From: Defence Infrastructure Organisation
• Published: 30 April 2013

Arborfield Garrison in Berkshire

Crest Nicholson has been selected by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) to manage the redevelopment of Arborfield Garrison in Berkshire.

The site offers a unique opportunity to deliver a high-quality sustainable development of some 2,000 new homes, associated supporting uses and major infrastructure.

The site is no longer needed for defence purposes and redevelopment will allow civilian homes to be built – contributing to the government’s Plan for Growth national housing strategy.

DIO previously signed a collaboration agreement with 2 adjoining landowners to deliver one of the most significant residential-led development opportunities in the south-east of England.

Gavin Marshall, Assistant Head of Commercial at DIO, said:

DIO’s priority is to support our Armed Forces as they prepare for operations by providing the facilities they need to do their job. We’re committed to ensuring the military estate is no larger than necessary and provides taxpayers with value for money.

We are delighted to appoint Crest Nicholson as Development Manager on this major redevelopment project, which has the potential to create much-needed housing in south-east England to the benefit of people living in the region.

Crest Nicholson will work closely with DIO to fund, manage and lead the development – achieving maximum value for taxpayers from the sale, in return for a share of the net proceeds.

Subject to further agreement, Crest Nicholson will also progress the current planning position, provide strategic advice and leadership on the site development and manage the disposal process. The company will also construct some or all of the development’s commercial aspects and will build some of the residential accommodation.

Scott Black, Group New Business Director at Crest Nicholson, comments:

The transformation of the Arborfield Garrison into a thriving new community will be one of the most significant developments in the country. With an estimated gross development value of £600 million, the project will deliver 2,000 much-needed homes and supporting infrastructure.

Crest Nicholson plans to deliver around 700 of the new homes and associated facilities and bring in other house builders to deliver 1,300 homes. Key to the success of the project will be partnership working and building a positive consensus not only with DIO but with other landowners, local authorities and key stakeholders.

Our selection by the DIO to lead this important development further underscores Crest’s reputation as a partner of choice in designing and delivering high-quality sustainable communities. At this critical stage in the economic recovery, we are very pleased to help generate local jobs, deliver economic growth and meet the pent-up demand for quality new homes.

GVA provided commercial and planning support to DIO. Steve Taylor, Director at GVA, said:

This is another successful example of the DIO Development Manager procurement model, where a high quality partner is chosen following a competitive and transparent selection process.

Published 30 April 2013