Whitstable Heights nears completion

Whitstable Heights is a new community of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes for outright sale, shared ownership, affordable rent and social rent. It’s been delivered through our partnership with Chartway Partnerships Group.

The development also delivers affordable and social rented homes beyond Section 106 requirements, made possible through our strategic relationship with Homes England and Canterbury City Council.

Construction began in 2021 and the development has gradually taken shape over the past five years, as people have moved in and the neighbourhood has grown.

Alongside the new homes, there’s 20ha of public open space, featuring meadow planting, walking routes, play areas, a multi-use games area, a miniature football pitch and community allotments.

More than 5,800 trees have been planted and Duncan Down has been extended to create a village green, which will be managed by Canterbury City Council in partnership with the Friends of Duncan Down.

As part of its social value commitments, Chartway supported improvements to Whitstable’s Umbrella Centre community facility. It also used local suppliers, offered training for subcontractors and took on five apprentices, with the project generating more than £2.3m for the local economy.

Hannah, a new Hyde shared owner, said: “Moving here was a big decision, especially with three children, but it’s honestly the best thing we’ve ever done. Shared ownership has given us real security and a proper foundation as a family. The children have so much more freedom, and we’re just happier. We love it here and can really see this as our forever home.”

She added: “There’s such a strong sense of community here, everyone is so friendly and looks out for each other. The children have made friends quickly and are always out playing together, and things like the allotments have really brought people together. It feels like a proper neighbourhood, and that’s really special.”

Jaime Buckley, Hyde Group Development Director, said: “Whitstable Heights has delivered much-needed homes for local people in an area where housing demand continues to grow. Developments like this play an important role in helping more people access high-quality, well-designed homes.”

Graham Chivers, Group Chief Executive Officer at Chartway Partnerships Group, said: “Whitstable Heights has grown into a fantastic new neighbourhood. As well as providing a wide range of homes, the scheme has created generous green spaces and facilities that will support the community for years to come.”