Dorset-based developer AJC Group is partnering with housing association VIVID to deliver 27 affordable homes at the former NHS Becton Centre site in Barton-on-Sea. Construction is set to commence in the coming months.
Planning permission was granted in December 2024 to demolish the vacant mental health facility and replace it with a thoughtfully designed apartment block featuring a selection of two-bedroom homes, plus 40 shared parking spaces. Despite initial approval as open-market housing, all 27 apartments will now be allocated as affordable homes for local residents via social rent with VIVID.
This development marks the first collaboration between AJC Group and VIVID, with AJC Group overseeing construction before handing the project over to the housing association.
David Cracklen, Director of AJC Group, commented: “We’re pleased to have completed the purchase of the Becton Centre site and will be soon ready to begin construction. This development will address the significant lack of affordable housing in the New Forest, building on our ongoing efforts with projects in Hythe and Dibden Purlieu. It’s a proud moment for us to deliver much-needed homes for the local community and we look forward to partnering with VIVID on this project .”
Sunita Aujla, Land and New Business Director at VIVID said: “We’re pleased to support the AJC Group on this important project. The new homes will provide much-needed affordable housing for local residents, and we’re committed to making sure our homes are the best they can be. Everyone wants a safe, healthy and affordable place to live.”
Situated on The Fairway, the striking new apartment block will bring some real architectural flair to the area. The site makes efficient use of an underutilised brownfield space, bringing long-term social, economic, and environmental benefits to the area.
The homes will be built to high energy efficiency standards, featuring air-source heat pumps, EV chargers, and high EPC ratings to help residents save on energy costs. Future residents will also enjoy beautifully landscaped communal gardens, private balconies on selected apartments, and convenient access to public transport and nearby towns, Barton-on-Sea and New Milton.
AJC Group is delivering 80 affordable homes across three other sites, including 33 homes at Goods Yard in Broadstone for Abri Group, 22 homes in Hythe for the New Forest District Council (NFDC), and 25 homes in Dibden Purlieu for Aster Group. The company plans to break ground on 115 additional homes in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to achieving the 500 in 5 target.