Vistry Group, the UK’s leading provider of affordable mixed-tenure housing, has begun construction of a new fully affordable housing development in Funtley, Hampshire. The scheme will deliver 125 new homes in partnership with long-standing housing association partner Abri, providing a sustainable, high-quality mix of homes to meet local needs.
The 15.94-hectare site was acquired in 2025 from specialist land agency Reside, alongside the forward sale of 119 homes to Abri. The development received full planning permission from Fareham Borough Council in September 2023 for 119 affordable homes – 60% for shared ownership and 40% for affordable rent -alongside outline consent for six custom-build homes. Through its Strategic Partnership with Homes England, the government’s housing and delivery agency, Abri is combining grant funding with its own funding to make all the homes affordable.
Designed to offer a range of one-to-four-bedroom properties, the homes will be fully electric and built using timber frames manufactured at Vistry’s off-site facility. Each home will also be fitted with EV charging infrastructure, supporting energy efficiency and sustainable living.
The scheme will also deliver wider community benefits, including a 12.5-hectare public park, improved pedestrian and cycle links, and enhanced access routes. Subject to local demand, a new community building may also be delivered as part of the development.
Following the start of construction, the first completions are expected in summer 2026 with final handovers anticipated in autumn 2027.
Trevor Wicks, Managing Director for Vistry Southern, commented: “It’s fantastic to see construction now underway on this important fully affordable development in Funtley. Using timber frames manufactured at our own off-site facility, we’re able to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes quickly and sustainably. This marks another step forward in our partnership with Abri to provide much-needed affordable housing across the region, and we’re proud to see the first stages of this new community taking shape.”
Sally Ingham, Development Director at Abri, added: “We’re proud to be starting work on 119 affordable homes that will make a real difference for local people. These high-quality, sustainable homes will sit within a vibrant community, enhanced by thoughtfully designed green spaces that support wellbeing and biodiversity. Our thanks go to Vistry for their continued collaboration and the strong partnership that’s helped bring this development to life. This milestone marks another step forward in Abri’s commitment to delivering 10,000 homes by 2030, with a clear focus on sustainability and supporting thriving communities.”