The completion of 183 new homes at The Lakes Estate, Bletchley, is a landmark moment in an ambitious £85 million regeneration of a historic site which dates back to the sixties.
To celebrate the final handovers of the newly built homes, a ceremony was held on Thursday 19th March attended by Pat O’Hare, Regional Director at GRAHAM, Councillor Ed Hume and residents.
Since work began in 2024 more than 100 council tenants have so far moved into the new homes, providing them with modern, energy-efficient and high-quality housing.
In addition to new housing, GRAHAM delivered new road infrastructure and green spaces within the development, including the new Warren Park which is now in its final stages and set to open in the coming weeks.
The completion of the new homes finalises the first phase of the project, which will see amenities including a nursery, community hub, and retail space added to the area.
Alongside this, Milton Keynes City Council has agreed funding for a new health hub, with work beginning in early 2027.
Plans for the regeneration of the site began a decade ago as many of the original homes, named Serpentine Court, were ageing, leaving residents in need of better quality housing, and the council facing rising costs from continuous repairs.
Since then, The Lakes Estate regeneration has been shaped by years of collaboration with the local community, who played a central role in designing the plans, which were approved in 2020.
The project is funded by Milton Keynes City Council with almost £70 million of investment and supported by a grant of just under £15 million from Homes England.
Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Ed Hume said: “This is a significant moment for local residents. These new homes mark the beginning of a new chapter for them, offering the security and quality they deserve.
“This regeneration shows what can happen when a community works hand in hand with the council to shape its future. The progress we see today will deliver better life chances, stronger neighbourhoods and new opportunities for many years to come.”
Pat O’Hare, Regional Director at GRAHAM, said: “Reaching this milestone is a proud moment for everyone involved in the project. Working closely with Milton Keynes City Council and local residents, we’ve not only delivered high-quality homes, but developed a vibrant neighbourhood which benefits families and individuals in the area.
“The improved infrastructure, green spaces and the creation of Warren Park will help shape a neighbourhood that residents can be proud of for generations to come.”
GRAHAM was awarded the construction contract through the Major Works Framework that’s managed by Pagabo. This appointment was based on its experience in delivering ambitious residential projects which leave a lasting impact on the community.
Ben Jones, Regional Director for Southern England at Pagabo, said: “Projects like the regeneration of The Lakes Estate demonstrate the powerful impact that collaborative procurement can have in delivering meaningful change for communities. Through the Major Works Framework, we’re proud to have supported Milton Keynes City Council in appointing a trusted delivery partner in GRAHAM to bring forward high-quality, sustainable homes for residents.”
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the strength of partnership between the council, contractor and local community, and it’s encouraging to see a scheme that not only provides modern housing but also invests in infrastructure, green space and future amenities that will benefit Milton Keynes for years to come.”
