Ground broken at Herstmonceux under exciting new partnership with Clarion

Work is underway at Herstmonceux in Kent as part of an exciting new partnership between Persimmon Homes and Clarion Housing Group, the largest provider of affordable housing in the UK.

The South East region completed the purchase of Herstmonceux from Clarion in November and will now build 70 much-needed new homes, with 25 homes being transferred to Clarion as the affordable housing partner on site. This includes 17 homes for affordable rent and eight for shared ownership.

This is the first time that Persimmon and Clarion have partnered together to bring forward a scheme, but both organisations are eager to collaborate and deliver more across the country.

Paul Rodgers, Group Director of Partnership Homes at Persimmon Homes said:

“We’re delighted to be working with Clarion Housing Group at Herstmonceux to bring forward this development and deliver a range of much-needed housing in this part of East Sussex.

“I’m excited by what this partnership will deliver in Herstmonceux and what it can deliver across the country. At Persimmon, we have ambitious growth plans and are already looking ahead to future projects with Clarion."

The scheme is highly sustainable with all properties benefitting from air-source heat pumps and EV charging points. In addition to these credentials, a bespoke design for the development has been produced which will complement the character of the village and existing community.

In total, £543,000 will also be invested into local infrastructure and public services including children’s play areas and early years' provision though Persimmon’s and Clarion’s joint contributions.

Ian Hamilton, Regional Managing Director at Persimmon Homes South East said:

“I am pleased to see work begin on this high-quality and attractive new development at Herstmonceux that we know will help meet local housing needs in Wealden.

“Persimmon has a strong reputation in the district and we are proud of our record in supporting local people, young families and first-time buyers to find their ideal home.”

Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group commented:

“We are pleased to be partnering with Persimmon on this development, which will deliver a mix of high-quality affordable homes for the local community. This collaboration reflects Clarion’s commitment to working with partners to increase the supply of sustainable homes and help meet local housing need.

Together we are focused on delivering well-designed places that people are proud to call home, and we look forward to seeing this scheme in Herstmonceux take shape.”

Andrew McGarvie, Director of Land and Partnerships at Clarion Housing Group, said:

“Sustainability is central to our work, and this development will provide residents with modern, fossil fuel-free homes from day one. Features like air-source heat pumps and EV charging will help lower running costs and support the district’s environmental ambitions.

Partnering with Persimmon allows us to deliver high-quality affordable homes that meet local needs and contribute to a greener future for the community.”