The next chapter at Gorse Ride: Building homes and lasting change
The next chapter at Gorse Ride: Building homes and lasting change
The next chapter of Gorse Ride is underway, with Phase 2a nearing completion and Phase 2b breaking ground.
This milestone brings our Residential division closer to delivering 249 modern, energy-efficient homes for Wokingham Borough Council and marks another step in a regeneration that’s about far more than bricks and mortar.
To celebrate this progress, Andy Wates joined Cllr Stephen Conway and representatives from Wokingham Borough Council for a groundbreaking ceremony on site. It was a moment that recognised the strength of partnership and the community-led approach that has shaped this project from day one.
Gorse Ride is one of our proudest examples of authentic engagement. Once known for high levels of deprivation and isolation, the community is being transformed into a thriving, inclusive neighbourhood. From monthly meetings and mentoring programmes to community events and green space initiatives, we’ve worked hand-in-hand with residents to create a place where people feel connected and proud. This commitment has turned initial scepticism into enthusiastic support, with residents now actively advocating for our continued involvement.
Phase 2a will deliver 96 new homes, with most residents moving from within the community to stay close to friends and neighbours. Every home meets EPC-B standards and includes features like air-source heat pumps, high-quality insulation and LED lighting – helping families cut energy costs and reduce carbon emissions across the borough.
Beyond the homes themselves, we’ve invested in social value initiatives that make a real difference, from healthy cooking programmes and mentoring opportunities to securing funding for local charities and creating green spaces for wellbeing.
Phase 2b will bring 90 more homes, including apartments, houses and bungalows, with completion expected in early 2028. The final phase will follow, taking the total to 249 homes. Together with Wokingham Borough Council, we’re building homes that work for people and the planet, and creating lasting social value along the way.
This marks another key milestone in our long-term commitment to the Gorse Ride community. We’re not just building homes – we’re creating a neighbourhood where people can thrive and remain connected. It’s fantastic to see the next phase begin, and I’m proud that our approach has kept the community together throughout, with residents helping shape the design and even naming new streets.”
Cllr Stephen Conway
Leader of Wokingham Borough Council and executive member for housing, partnerships and the local plan
Together with Wokingham Borough Council, we’re creating modern, energy-efficient homes and a sense of community that will last long after construction ends.
“What we’re achieving at Gorse Ride is only possible because of strong partnership and shared values.
“Breaking ground on Phase 2B marks an exciting transition into the next stage of regeneration, bringing us closer to delivering even more homes for local families.
Lee Bushell
Regional Managing Director for the South of England at Wates Residential
As we start the next phase of the regeneration, it shows how working together with the community and its partners results in this transformation, which is well on its way.”
Steve Bowers
Chairman of the Gorse Ride community steering group
