Places for People secures land in South Gloucestershire to deliver over 2,000 new homes

Places for People (PfP), the UK’s leading social enterprise has secured land subject to planning in South Gloucestershire to deliver 2,050 new homes working in conjunction with landowners as part of a development that will help address the region’s critical housing need.

Through their relationship with asset managers St. Congar, PfP secured the site located North of Lyde Green on the north-east fringe of Bristol. The site forms part of the emerging South Gloucestershire Council’s Local Plan and the proposed North Lyde ‘Ecotech’ Village, which includes provision for a circa 130,000m2 Technology and Science Park alongside new affordable and open market homes, extra care accommodation, community infrastructure, and green spaces.

The development will form the eastern anchor of the emerging West Innovation Arc, extending the Bristol & Bath Science Park corridor and will represent one of the region’s most significant mixed-use opportunities. 

As master developer and long-term delivery partner, Places for People with St. Congar will oversee the planning and phased delivery of the site. PfP will also deliver above the 30% affordable home policy provision, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to creating inclusive, thriving communities. 

Andrew Usher, Group Managing Director of Developments at Places for People, said: “This development is a flagship opportunity for PfP in the South West to bring together our full breadth of expertise, from housing and extra care to placemaking, estate management, leisure, and social impact.

“There’s no delivery partner quite like us. Our unique social enterprise model enables us to deliver homes at the pace and scale required, while ensuring long-term value for communities. By working in partnership with like-minded developers, we’re tackling the housing crisis head-on - not just in the West of England, but across the UK.”

The proposed new development will include a new primary school, extra care housing, sports pitches, play areas, allotments, and community spaces, alongside a minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). New habitats, recreational routes, and open green spaces will be created to support nature and enhance health and wellbeing.

Miff Chichester, Managing Director of St. Congar, said: “North of Lyde Green sits at the heart of one of the South West’s most dynamic growth corridors. We are proud to have brought this opportunity forward and to see it underpinned by institutional investment and a proven delivery partner in Places for People. It reflects the kind of strategic land opportunity we specialise in by unlocking complex sites, through collaboration and long-term vision, seeking to deliver sustainable, deliverable developments of similar ambition.”

Columbia Threadneedle Investments, supported by development advisors Tudor Real Estate, has provided the equity investment to secure two key parcels of freehold land. 

Rob Tudor, Managing Director at Tudor Real Estate, acting for Columbia Threadneedle Investments, said: “This investment reflects our confidence in the South Gloucestershire market and the strength of partnership-led delivery models. Columbia Threadneedle Investments see North of Lyde Green as a long-term, sustainable growth opportunity underpinned by strong fundamentals and a clear commitment to quality and community outcomes.”

As with all PfP developments, the organisation’s Social Impact team will be embedded throughout the project to maximise social value, strengthen local partnerships, to ensure the creation of a vibrant, inclusive community that reflects PfP’s purpose and values.

Andrew added: “This project is the result of multiple complex land acquisitions and collaborative agreements and is a testament to our long-term commitment to delivering quality, affordable housing. We’re proud to be investing in South Gloucestershire and contributing to a future where everyone has access to a safe, secure, and sustainable home.”

A programme of public involvement will take place in 2026, giving local people the opportunity to help shape the emerging masterplan.