Developer gs8 has acquired a 122-acre site in Bowers Gifford, Basildon, with a projected gross development value in excess of £300m. The landmark acquisition represents a major step forward for gs8’s planet-positive housing agenda and reinforces its ambitions to deliver 1,000 homes annually.
The site, identified in Basildon’s emerging local plan as appropriate for housing, is set to play a central role in the borough’s long-term regeneration. Plans for the development will be brought forward in coordination with the Basildon town centre masterplan and will prioritise green infrastructure, biodiversity, and affordability — with 50% of homes to be designated as affordable.
The Bowers Gifford scheme will be delivered under gs8’s “Planet Positive Framework” and “Zero Waste Charter,” which aim to ensure all non-contaminated materials and construction off-cuts are reused. The homes will be designed so the carbon stored in their materials and surrounding landscaping exceeds the embodied carbon used in their construction and maintenance.
Josh Gordon, co-founder of gs8, said: “This is a pivotal scheme for us as we continue to reinforce our commitment to scaling up planet positive housing delivery. We believe sustainable development must sit at the heart of housebuilding — creating not just highly efficient, low impact homes, but vibrant, integrated communities. Our approach and strategic vision have been incredibly well supported by residents and local stakeholders, and we are now delivering zero-carbon living at scale.”
The masterplan will be shaped in collaboration with the local community and will include a wide range of community-led spaces and facilities.
James Barton, partner and department head of London land at Knight Frank, added: “This 122-acre acquisition in Basildon represents a significant land transaction that will deliver much-needed housing in an area with strong connectivity to London. The number of units proposed will transform this part of Essex, and gs8’s sustainability goals will be a key selling point for both the local authority and future buyers.”
The Bowers Gifford development adds to gs8’s growing pipeline, which now exceeds 1,500 homes following strategic investment from TPG Angelo Gordon and Ridgeback Group.
It also marks the company’s third project in Essex, alongside the Carpenters Yard development in Epping Forest — 113 homes being delivered in partnership with Octopus Energy, and the UK’s largest “zero bills” housing scheme.
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