Hayes estates project a step closer to delivering new affordable homes

The ceremony, a builders' rite of passage, signifies the installation of the final beam or brick in a new structure, and importantly for local residents it means their modern, new homes are a step closer to completion.  

The first phase of construction will create 110 much-needed new homes in the borough, with 80 properties at Hayes Town Centre estate and an additional 30 at Avondale Drive. The delivery of the site's affordable homes has been prioritised in phase one as part of the council's drive to tackle the local housing shortage. 

The project will transform the area by providing 740 new homes in total, 50 per cent affordable, and public spaces for the community, across both estates.  

Leader of Hillingdon Council, Cllr Ian Edwards, was joined by Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Property; Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth; Deputy Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Philip Corthorne; and representatives from Higgins Partnerships, who the council is working with to build the properties at the event. 

Cllr Tuckwell, said: "Our priority was to ensure that the affordable homes for local people were included in the first phases of development. 

"Council properties are in high demand, and creating new homes is a key part of our strategy to create safe and strong communities and prevent homelessness, so I'm delighted to see these works progress."   

Declan Higgins, Chief Executive Officer at Higgins Group, said: "We are delighted to reach this important milestone at Hayes Town Centre. This achievement brings us closer to delivering high quality, sustainable homes, along with high quality public spaces that will enhance the lives of residents and create a thriving, inclusive community."  

Both estates will feature new high quality open spaces, improved pedestrian and cycle routes, secure car parking, landscaping and children's play areas. At Hayes Town Centre a new community centre will also replace the existing one, providing enhanced facilities for residents. 

The first phase of redevelopment is expected to complete in Autumn 2025, with the whole project estimated to run for a period of approximately seven to nine years to reflect the decant and phased construction strategy.