A developer is looking to oversee at least three housing projects in Hemel Hempstead after agreeing to partner with the borough council.

The Hill Group announced its partnership with Dacorum Borough Council last week and revealed three development opportunities it is looking at.

Cherry Bounce, to the north of the town centre, is being considered as an ‘affordable housing’ site. Previously architects have drawn up plans to construct up to 110 homes within the Hemel Hempstead neighbourhood.

The Hill Group also says the Water Gardens Car Parks are a strategically important location for future regeneration projects in Hemel Hempstead. Changes to the site could be linked to whether the new Hemel Health Campus on Market Square goes ahead.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Sally Symington with Tom Hill, Managing Director of The Hill Group.

placeholder image — Leader of the Council, Cllr Sally Symington with Tom Hill, Managing Director of The Hill Group.

Homebuilding specialists also highlighted the former Civic Centre in Hemel Hempstead that was demolished in 2019. It has been sighted as an area which could be repurposed for housing.

Both the council and the construction business have agreed an ‘investment plan’ for the borough. They claim the plan brings a clear and structured way to progress development that supports long-term growth.

Councillor Sally Symington, Dacorum Borough Council Leader, said: “I am committed to creating a place where people are proud to live, work and spend time. The approval of our first Investment Plan marks an exciting moment for Dacorum. It sets out how we can accelerate the delivery of much-needed affordable homes and wider regeneration that genuinely benefits our communities. Through this partnership, we are not just planning new developments, we are building vibrant, high-quality places that people are proud to call home.”

A central aim of the plan is to regenerate and improve the facilities and appearance of Hemel Hempstead town centre.

Tom Hill, Managing Director for The Hill Group, added: “This first Investment Plan provides a strong foundation for the Dacorum Investment Partnership. By working collaboratively with the council, we can bring forward high-quality sustainable developments that respond to local needs, while delivering long-term value for the borough.”

Another aspect of the plan involves looking for housing opportunities across existing neighbourhoods within Dacorum. Staff are now working to set up engagement events around the potential development plans for the former civic centre and Cherry Bounce.