Places for People responds to Gilston Judicial Review verdict

Earlier this year a claim was submitted for a judicial review of East Herts District Council’s decision to grant planning permission for two outline applications for a 10,000-home project in Gilston, Harlow. 

The council had previously issued the outline planning permission for the 10,000 homes in January 2025. 
 
Places for People, which will deliver 8,500 of the new homes plus associated community infrastructure, has today issued a response to this week’s Judicial Review outcome. 
 
Responding to the verdict, Places for People’s Group CEO Greg Reed said: 

“This week’s Judicial Review decision on the outline planning permission for Gilston marks a pivotal milestone for a landmark project that has been many years in the making. The Court’s refusal of the challenge on all grounds brings welcome clarity and enables us to move forward with confidence – beginning delivery of 8,500 new homes and over £1 billion of infrastructure, starting this year. 
 
“Gilston is Community done right. Forecast to deliver £6bn in economic impact, it offers a bold and practical response to the housing crisis and aligns with the Government’s ambition to deliver housing and infrastructure together. The recent announcement that Harlow will host the world-leading National Biosecurity Centre highlights the strategic importance of investing in both homes and national infrastructure. Thriving Communities depend on the integration of these elements, and this week’s decision is a vital step in that direction. 
 
“We’ve worked closely with the local Community and stakeholders to shape a shared, long-term vision for Gilston. With this milestone now reached, we are one step closer to delivering the homes, infrastructure, and legacy that the region deserves.”