Vistry Group Adds 233 Homes to Western Gate in Zen Housing Deal
Vistry Group, one of the United Kingdom’s foremost homebuilders and a national leader in delivering mixed-tenure residential developments, has announced the next significant step in the expansion of its Western Gate community, situated in Harpole near Northampton. This latest milestone includes the formal exchange of contracts to construct an additional 233 homes, bringing the total number of homes either completed or under construction at Norwood Farm to 1,070—out of a broader masterplan for 1,900 new residences.
This move highlights Vistry’s continued commitment to providing diverse, high-quality housing solutions that address the growing demand for accessible and affordable living options across the UK. The new batch of homes will consist of a mix of tenures, reflecting a community-focused strategy designed to foster diversity and inclusivity in one of the region’s most ambitious residential developments.
A Diverse Housing Mix to Serve Varied Community Needs
The newly confirmed 233 homes will be developed across three distinct housing categories:
- 83 affordable homes, contributing directly to alleviating local housing shortages;
- 80 homes for the private rental sector (PRS), providing flexible living options for professionals and families seeking quality accommodation without the long-term commitment of ownership;
- 70 homes for open market sale, ensuring opportunities for first-time buyers and homeowners looking to relocate to this fast-developing region.
This mix supports Vistry’s mission to create integrated communities rather than siloed estates, blending a variety of socioeconomic groups in one master-planned environment. It also reflects the evolving preferences of UK residents, many of whom are seeking alternative paths to homeownership amidst fluctuating market conditions and a challenging economic climate.
Planning Greenlit for Broader Development as Phase Two Commences
The announcement of this additional housing comes in close succession to another milestone—approval from West Northamptonshire Council on the reserved matters application for Phase Two of the Norwood Farm development. This approval allows Vistry to commence work on a further 278 homes.
Of those 278 homes, 139 will be available for private sale, while the remaining 139 homes will be delivered as affordable units, continuing the strong emphasis on multi-tenure delivery. These affordable homes are being brought forward in collaboration with Platform Housing Group, one of the largest housing associations in the UK. Platform Housing’s involvement ensures robust long-term management and support services for residents, thereby reinforcing the development’s long-term sustainability.
Zen Housing Partnership Marks a Strategic First
A particularly notable element of this recent development phase is Vistry’s first-ever partnership with Zen Housing, a respected affordable housing provider known for its high standards in community development and property management.
As part of this collaboration, Zen Housing will own and manage 18 of the newly built affordable homes. This partnership signals a growing network of housing associations and public-private collaborations aimed at delivering well-connected, sustainable communities with long-term social impact.
Andrew Harvey, Managing Director of Vistry South Central Midlands, expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement:
“I am thrilled to announce the completion of contracts for an additional 233 mixed-tenure homes at Western Gate and our first contact with Zen Housing. This brings the total to 1,070 of the 1,900 new properties planned at Norwood Farm. Our commitment goes beyond housebuilding, with £9 million allocated to bolstering services for both new and current residents.”
The speed and efficiency with which this new partnership was executed—completed in just five weeks—demonstrate the shared vision and strong collaboration between both organisations.
John Okell, Investment Director at Zen Housing, echoed this sentiment, saying:
“We are delighted to mark the start of our partnership with Vistry Group on this phase of homes at Western Gate. These 18 high-quality affordable homes reflect our commitment to delivering sustainable, well-connected communities. Executing the deal in just five weeks ahead of completions in August highlights the strength of collaboration between our teams. We look forward to supporting the wider Norwood Farm vision through tenure-diverse, community-focused delivery.”
Investment in Local Infrastructure and Community Services
In alignment with its philosophy of delivering more than just homes, Vistry has pledged nearly £10 million in funding to support infrastructure and community service improvements in the surrounding area. This financial contribution is intended to ensure that the rapid development of homes is matched by adequate public amenities and resources for residents.
Key areas of investment include:
- Construction of a new primary school, critical for accommodating the growing population of young families in the area;
- Tree planting and green space enhancements, promoting biodiversity and environmental wellbeing;
- Improvements to public footpaths, ensuring walkable and pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods;
- Contributions to a local centre, providing commercial and community facilities for day-to-day needs;
- Development of children’s play areas and recreational spaces, supporting family life and promoting physical health;
- Upgrades to the local library and transport infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and civic engagement.
These initiatives demonstrate Vistry’s dedication to holistic place-making—an approach that considers long-term livability and community resilience alongside short-term housing delivery targets.
Phase One Progress and Market Appeal
Phase one of the Norwood Farm masterplan—which includes the development of 439 homes—is already well underway, with many families having moved in and established roots in the growing community. These homes range from one- to five-bedroom properties, appealing to a wide demographic including singles, couples, growing families, and downsizers.
Located just five miles from Northampton town centre, the site is strategically positioned with easy access to the M1 motorway, enhancing regional connectivity for commuters. Furthermore, the community benefits from proximity to Ofsted-rated “Good” schools, making it a highly desirable area for families prioritising education.
Homes for sale under this phase are marketed under Bovis Homes and Linden Homes, both subsidiaries of the Vistry Group. These brands are known for delivering contemporary homes with quality craftsmanship, appealing interiors, and energy-efficient standards, further boosting the site’s reputation among homebuyers.
Building a Vision for the Future
The Norwood Farm development is not merely a response to housing targets; it is a carefully considered, strategic plan aimed at creating a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant community. Through its multi-tenure strategy, infrastructure investment, and strong collaboration with housing associations like Platform Housing and Zen Housing, Vistry is setting a benchmark for future UK developments.
The progress made at Western Gate—now more than halfway through its total planned capacity—stands as a powerful example of how private sector expertise, when aligned with public policy goals and community needs, can deliver enduring impact. As construction continues, the area is poised to become one of Northamptonshire’s most sought-after addresses, balancing high-quality homes with environmental consciousness, infrastructure, and inclusive growth.
