Plans have been lodged for a large-scale development on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead in Hertfordshire, covering nearly 1,000 acres. The proposal by The Crown Estate aims to deliver up to 4,000 homes across two neighbourhoods, incorporating a mix of ownership options including affordable housing.
The development will also feature community and healthcare facilities alongside up to four new schools. Each neighbourhood is intended to have its own hub of amenities, with extensive green spaces and parks woven through the site. More than a third of the area is set to remain publicly accessible, including a 63-hectare country park to the north and a valley park to the south.
In addition to housing and community infrastructure, East Hemel will provide 1.8 million sq ft of employment space, including a central employment zone and innovation hub. The project forms part of the Hemel Garden Communities programme, which aims to deliver up to 11,000 new homes in Hemel Hempstead by 2050, alongside thousands of new jobs.
Rob Chesworth, head of strategic land at The Crown Estate, described the development as “a rare opportunity to create a place that will serve the people of Hertfordshire for generations to come, providing quality homes and jobs, and supporting the wider ambitions of the area.” He highlighted the input of local residents, stakeholders and partners in shaping the plans through events including site visits, study tours, design workshops and public drop-ins.
The outline planning application, now submitted to St Albans City & District Council and Dacorum Borough Council, seeks to establish the principles of the development and set out its key parameters. The project is intended to create vibrant, resilient neighbourhoods that reflect the needs and aspirations of the community well into the future.
