Apache Capital and Moda Group have agreed to sell a development plot in Hove to Homes for Brighton & Hove, marking the final phase of their build-to-rent neighbourhood, Moda, Hove Central. The transaction is subject to planning approval.
The site, adjacent to the Hove Central scheme, is set to deliver more than 300 affordable homes. It will be developed by Homes for Brighton & Hove, a joint venture between Brighton & Hove City Council and the Hyde Group, established in 2017 with a mandate to build 1,000 homes for low-income households.
The disposal completes a wider regeneration effort led by Apache and Moda, who have transformed a former trading estate into a mixed-use BTR community.
Hove Central comprises 564 homes, Grade-A office space, retail units, and extensive public realm, more than 60% of which is landscaped open space. Since launching in Spring 2024, more than 70% of available homes have been let within six months.
John Dunkerley, chief executive at Apache Capital, said: “Hove Central is a diverse and multi-faceted masterplan which will now deliver high-quality housing across a range of tenures alongside its positive environmental and social impact on the area.
“We prudently adapted our strategy to satisfy market demand, with the new affordable provision set to supply much-needed social housing in the area and bolster the placemaking credentials of the scheme, which is already a hive of activity despite only opening in Spring 2024.
“Leasing activity at the build-to-rent element illustrates the strength of demand for a living proposition underpinned by high-quality sustainable rental housing, professional management and amenity offerings, which is also seen through investor confidence. Institutional capital continues to be drawn to the sector’s strong structural tailwinds and growth outlook, and one in which Apache has one of the largest operational portfolios.”
Tony Brooks, executive chair at Moda Group, added: “From site acquisition and planning through to delivery and long-term operation, we have worked closely with Brighton & Hove City Council and the city’s wider community to deliver a neighbourhood that meets its needs and embraces the vibrant spirit of this amazing location.
“The sale of this final plot to an affordable housing provider is a fitting conclusion, helping to address the city’s housing need while reinforcing our long-term commitment as a partner and neighbour to Brighton & Hove. We look forward to seeing these much-needed homes come to fruition as part of the wider masterplan at Hove Central.”
Homes for Brighton & Hove has delivered nearly 350 homes since its inception. The JV’s latest project on Sackville Road is set to bring forward 306 affordable homes, comprising 183 for council rent and 123 for shared ownership. A planning application will be submitted in June 2025.
Jaime Buckley, development director at Hyde Group, said: “We’ll be applying for planning permission in June 2025 to build 306 affordable homes at Sackville Road, 183 for council-rent and 123 for shared ownership. The homes will be designed to high sustainability standards using renewable energy systems and will deliver 10% biodiversity net gain. Should permission be granted, we hope to start construction in early 2026.”
As part of its Section 106 contributions, Moda is delivering a £500,000 Public Art Strategy, which will see installations by local, national and international artists co-created with residents and the community, further enhancing the area’s cultural and social fabric.
Image © Hyde
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