Our proposals
By adopting an inclusive design process and a pioneering approach to placemaking, proposals for East Hemel will be shaped to the needs of the local community both now and into the future.
Through a diverse mix of housing, social and community infrastructure, green space and thousands of new jobs, East Hemel has the potential to deliver transformational change within and around Hemel Hempstead. We are committed to investing in Hemel Hempstead for the long-term so we can realise this ambition.
The planning context
Our proposals for East Hemel are informed by local planning policy for both St Albans City & District Council (SADC) and Dacorum Borough Council (DBC). Both councils are progressing with the development of new local plans which outline how areas should be designed and developed.
The East Hemel site sits predominantly within SADC and is allocated for development in its draft Local Plan, which has now been submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for examination.
More information on SADC's Local Plan
DBC concluded its final stage of public consultation for its Local Plan (called Regulation 19) in December 2024 and will shortly be submitting its draft plan for examination.
What we’re proposing
Homes for all
We are committed to delivering a diverse, affordable and better designed mix of housing to suit different budgets and life stages. From first-time buyers to families, homes to raise children in and for later living – we are delivering a broad mix of housing types and tenures to suit multi-generational communities and a wide range of needs.
Supporting the local economy
Working with local partners and business groups (including Hertfordshire Innovation Quarter), we will deliver 1.8m sq ft of commercial space which will create thousands of new jobs, skills, and training opportunities. We are exploring emerging sectors such as modern methods of construction and AgriTech to diversify the local economy and drive growth across the region.
We will be sourcing materials locally and sustainably to make sure the economic benefits of the supply chain stay in the area, working with local companies and SMEs as much as we can.
Engaging with the local community and promoting community participation
We want to ensure the wide-ranging benefits can be shared positively by both existing and future residents. Community participation is at the heart of this.
Throughout the development process, we will engage comprehensively with the local community and discuss long-term stewardship as we look to give residents real power and ownership over decisions and spaces.
We will be inclusive and engage different demographics to ensure that the development reflects the needs and wishes of the local population.
Energy efficiency and sustainable living
Our goal is to make energy more efficient in a way that benefits residents, lowers energy bills and creates a more sustainable future for everyone.
To deliver this, we are exploring modern construction methods and new technologies to ensure the development generates less waste, reduces energy use and minimises embodied carbon in homes.
We will also put in place a comprehensive active travel strategy for East Hemel, based around local centres and sustainable transport routes, which could potentially set a new benchmark for the country.
Nurturing our natural world
We are looking to deliver vast areas of publicly accessible open space on the site for the first time. This could include a country park, new green space and community gardens (such as Cherry Tree Lane Community Garden).
We are exploring a restorative approach to nature by enhancing existing areas and creating new wildlife habitats. This will allow nature to recover, promote local food production and create spaces for people to reconnect with the land.
Trusted with our country’s heritage
The Crown Estate takes its responsibility to protect, maintain and celebrate local heritage seriously.
Our long-term view is to enhance the rich local culture and help to make East Hemel a source of pride for decades to come.
We will treat all heritage buildings with sensitivity and, where we can, work with the community to breathe new life into them in a way that celebrates the cultural identity of Hemel Hempstead.