Higgins Partnerships has been appointed by Milton Keynes City Council to deliver 66 new council homes at the former Cripps Lodge sheltered housing site in Netherfield, Buckinghamshire.
The development will transform the former care facility into a high-quality, sustainable residential neighbourhood, supporting the Council’s long-term strategy for regeneration, housing growth and inclusive communities.
It will provide a mix of one-to-five-bedroom homes, including bungalows, two and three-storey houses and a split-level apartment building with plant and cycle storage at lower ground level, and residential units above.
Designed to reflect local housing needs, the homes will benefit from private gardens, off-road parking and access to open space. They will also incorporate the latest energy efficiency features, such as air source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), and integrated solar PV panels. All homes are being constructed to a high fabric performance standard to ensure low energy bills for tenants and support climate resilience.
Declan Higgins, Chief Executive Officer for Higgins Group commented, “We are delighted to be appointed by Milton Keynes City Council to deliver these much-needed high-quality council homes. We pride ourselves on working collaboratively with our partners and local communities to ensure we leave a lasting impact. As part of this development, we will also be creating local jobs and apprenticeships, building a local supply chain and adding value to the local economy.”
The scheme, originally designed by DCa Architects, is now being progressed by RG+P under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA), working closely with Higgins into delivery.
High-quality landscaping, improved pedestrian routes, permeable paving and climate-resilient planting will support sustainable drainage and create an attractive environment for residents.
Higgins Partnerships was appointed following a formal procurement process through the Pretium Framework whilst taking into account City Council’s More for MK approach to capture local improvements and social value. The development forms part of the council’s wider strategy to tackle homelessness and reduce the number of families in temporary accommodation.
Cllr Ed Hume, Cabinet Member for Housing at Milton Keynes City Council said, “It's really important that we make good use of sites that are no longer fit for purpose. There’s a desperate need for new council homes and I’m pleased that we’re making progress at Cripps Lodge. Many of these homes will be going to people who need extra support and adaptations to get around.
“We’re always looking at ways we can increase our housing offer, whether that’s building homes ourselves like this or buying them on the market. We’re committed to getting the right types of homes for people that will not only give them a secure roof over their heads but also provide a space that gives them independence and dignity.”
Design work is already underway, with construction due to start in early 2026, and completion expected in 2028. The local community will be invited to view the designs and will receive regular updates as the development progresses.
The former sheltered housing scheme, Cripps Lodge, was demolished in 2020 after falling into disuse. Since then, the City Council has secured planning permission to build high-quality, affordable council homes.
