We're pleased to announced the formation of a new Strategic Land Division to fuel the next phase of growth across its business. The new division will focus on unlocking the value of our long-term land bank, which encompasses over 70 sites with the potential for around 5,500 homes. The move forms part of our strategy to deliver sustainable and profitable growth, targeting the delivery of more than 500 homes per annum over the next three to five years.
The new team brings together considerable expertise in land acquisition, planning and strategic development to ensure we are well positioned to unlock value from its strategic portfolio. Group Land and Planning Director, Duncan Klitgaard, will head up the new division, supported by Emma Challenger, Head of Strategic Land, Luke Bargman, Strategic Land Manager, and Shaun Lilley, Strategic Land & Planning Manager.
Our new strategic division will be closely integrated with its regional planning teams, combining shorter-term land opportunities with longer-term promotional sites. The focus will be on identifying and delivering high-quality, sustainable developments of up to 250 units in desirable locations across the South-East. Over the next 12 months, the aim is to submit planning applications on 10-15 strategic sites, which would deliver between 800-1000 homes into our regional pipeline over the forthcoming years.
Duncan Klitgaard commented: “We already have a strong platform in place, and by creating a dedicated team focused on strategic land promotion, we will accelerate the pace at which we convert potential into much-needed housing. Our focus will be on aspirational and sustainable locations, and we have the skills and experience to manage complexity, create valued partnerships with landowners, and deliver developments that meet both local community needs and market demand.
“We are fully geared for growth and, with the backing of our shareholders, have the financial firepower to underwrite land promotion and acquisition at scale.”
We welcome recent moves from the Labour government to unlock the housing market and expedite planning decisions. However, the company believes more needs to be done, particularly around first-time buyer incentives, to stimulate demand and support delivery.
Chris Chiles, CEO, added: “Swift, sensible planning reform is part of the solution, but ultimately we need to see equally bold support for demand-side measures. As a housebuilder, we are committed to delivering sustainable growth, but we must ensure that aspiring homeowners can take those first steps onto the ladder.
“Our new Strategic Land Division underscores Elivia’s commitment to long-term, sustainable growth, enabling the business to draw upon a deep reservoir of development opportunities. By bridging strategic land promotion with immediate regional delivery, we aim to maintain a pipeline that is both resilient and scalable.”
For further information on our land acquisition strategy and operating areas, visit the website.