Programme update by TOWN, 15 October 2026
Dear all,
We wanted to share an update on progress at Northstowe, including Suvana and The Hive cohousing communities, and answer some questions about the anticipated construction timetable.
What stage is the project at?
Detailed planning permission was secured in early 2026 and technical design is ongoing. This represents significant progress towards bringing the homes and communities into being.
When will construction start?
We are currently targeting a construction start in the first quarter of 2027. However, this remains subject to review, and we are not yet in a position to confirm a firm start date.
What is affecting the timetable?
There are two main factors.
First, we are awaiting greater clarity on the programme for the wider development of Northstowe, including the town centre, which is being delivered by Homes England in partnership with other developers. We expect the timeframe for this to become clearer over the coming months.
Second, particularly given the challenging housing market, we want to make further progress with reservations across The Hive and Suvana, to strengthen the case for proceeding with construction.
What are TOWN and its partners doing to move things forward?
TOWN continues to work closely with Hill, our joint venture partner, and Homes England to resolve the outstanding issues and establish a firmer construction timetable.
Although the timetable remains uncertain, we want to use this period constructively to put the project in the strongest possible position to proceed.
Our priorities are to:
Work with Hill and Homes England to establish greater certainty about the wider Northstowe programme and our construction timetable.
Review the costs and commercial arrangements for delivering the scheme, with a view to providing updated home prices and anticipated service charges as soon as possible.
Work with Suvana and Hive Cohousing to support existing reservers and co-creators, welcome new members and secure further reservations.
Continue engaging with both communities on their requirements, so that these can be taken into account as the project progresses towards construction.
We recognise that uncertainty about pricing, service charges and the delivery timetable makes it more difficult for people to commit to a home. Addressing these uncertainties is therefore a priority, and we will share further information as soon as we are in a position to do so.
What does this mean for the cohousing communities?
TOWN remains fully committed to bringing Suvana and The Hive forward, and we will continue working closely with both communities to make that happen.
We recognise that becoming part of a new cohousing community represents a significant commitment, and that uncertainty around the timetable can make it difficult to plan. While changes to programmes are a normal part of bringing forward developments of this kind, we appreciate the patience and commitment of everyone involved.
What can members do to help?
One of the most valuable things you can do is continue spreading the word about Suvana and The Hive. Welcoming more prospective residents and securing further reservations will help strengthen both communities and support progress towards construction.
When will we know more?
We expect greater clarity on the wider Northstowe programme over the coming months and will share a firmer construction timetable as soon as we are able to. We will continue to keep you updated in our regular meetings as the project progresses.
Thank you for your continued patience, commitment and support.
Best wishes,
TOWN