WILTON HILL / ERSKINE PARK

The UK’s first major housing development built to support veterans and service leavers transitioning to civilian life has transformed an ex-military base in Wilton, Wiltshire into a thriving new community. 

The military is the county's biggest single employer with some 56,000 ex-service people now choosing to live in the area. Housing both current and former military personnel is a significant challenge.

The new neighbourhood includes two new Redrow housing developments, Wilton Hill and Erskine Park, both homes for military service leavers, an enterprise hub, community café, nursery and retirement accommodation.

Wilton is a prime example of Redrow’s placemaking principle of providing ‘homes for all’, recognising that sustainable and socially cohesive communities are formed when there is a diverse mix of housing types and tenures. Traditional residential properties are provided alongside veterans’ accommodation and community facilities.

Redrow began construction of 292 homes at Wilton in autumn 2014 and welcomed its first residents in March 2015. It pledged community investment totalling £5m, including £1m-plus toward primary school education, £938,585 toward secondary education and just under £900,000 toward open spaces and improving public transport

As part of the new community, formed in partnership with Our Enterprise and the Wilton Community Land Trust, Redrow has provided 30 affordable homes, including some adapted for wheelchair use. Redrow Homes was responsible for making sure the development is commercially sustainable, delivery of housing and associated services.

The new neighbourhood includes 40-plus homes for veterans, who will rent units for six to 24 months while receiving business and skills training, before moving through to independent living, making room for another veteran.