Homes England and Vistry agree deal to accelerate 1000 homes at Northstowe

Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency, and Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes, have agreed a conditional contract to accelerate the delivery of 1,000 new homes at Northstowe, Cambridgeshire.

What is being delivered?

The deal will bring forward 900 homes, alongside two SME parcels of 50 homes each, a new local centre, a primary school and supporting infrastructure, including roads, utilities and green space.

Of the new homes, 40% will be affordable, adding to the already diverse range of homes available at Northstowe and supporting a balanced and inclusive community. More than £20million of social infrastructure and planning contributions will also be made as part of the scheme through the agreed Section 106 Agreement. 

It is anticipated that a planning application will be made for the first phase before the end of 2026, with building work expected to begin in 2027, and the first residents moving in from 2028.

What does this mean for Northstowe?

This agreement marks a significant step in accelerating delivery at Northstowe and brings forward a major new phase of one of the UK’s most significant new communities. Phase 3B is an important part of Northstowe’s wider vision as a well-connected, sustainable community with its own distinct and independent spirit. The deal will help increase the rate at which new homes are built, while ensuring they are delivered alongside the supporting infrastructure and amenities set out in the plans.

Alison Crofton, chief regional delivery officer at Homes England, said: “This agreement unlocks a major new phase of delivery at Northstowe, supporting up to 1,000 homes and bringing forward essential infrastructure in step with development. It will help accelerate build-out and create more opportunities for SME builders, strengthening market resilience and paving the way for a well‑planned, sustainable community.”

Stephen Teagle, chief executive of partnerships & regeneration at Vistry, added: “Northstowe is an important and ambitious new community, and we’re pleased to be working with Homes England to accelerate the next stage of its growth, delivering much-needed mixed-tenure homes alongside the vital infrastructure required for communities to thrive. We share Homes England’s commitment to creating places that are sustainable, well-connected and designed for the long term, and we look forward to working closely with partners as this next phase progresses.”

Homes England has worked closely with partners to shape an approach that aligns with local planning policy and supports long-term growth. By linking infrastructure delivery with housing delivery from the outset of this phase, the agreement is designed to support a well-planned and timely next stage for Northstowe.