Key Points
- Hackney Council is seeking a contractor to deliver a regeneration project of 341 homes on the De Beauvoir Estate.
- The project targets ten infill plots within the existing 1960s-built estate housing 870 flats.
- Approximately 45% of the new homes will be affordable, including around 90 for social rent.
- The scheme includes commercial spaces and significant public realm upgrades.
- A two-stage competitive flexible procedure will select the contractor.
- Five bidders will be shortlisted for a pre-construction services agreement to develop design and comply with the Building Safety Act.
- Construction is expected to begin in September 2026 and end in September 2030.
- Tender applications close on 21 November 2025, with contract award anticipated by June 2026.
- The council hosted a contractor briefing and estate walkabout on 12 June 2025 for interested firms.
- The total project budget is around £150 million.
What is the scope of the Hackney regeneration scheme?
As reported by Alex Funk of Housing Today, Hackney Council has initiated a major £150 million regeneration project known as the De Beauvoir New Homes Project. This ambitious plan aims to deliver up to 341 new residential units across ten infill plots within the De Beauvoir Estate, an area dominated by 1960s-built towers currently home to about 870 flats. The council’s vision includes not only the creation of these homes but also the integration of commercial spaces and large-scale public realm improvements designed to enhance community life and urban quality.
How affordable will the new homes be?
The project emphasises affordability, with approximately 45% of the new homes designated as affordable housing. This includes around 90 units available for social rent, providing essential accommodation options for lower-income residents of Hackney. Such inclusion reflects the council’s commitment to delivering mixed-tenure housing to meet diverse community needs and to support social cohesion in an evolving neighbourhood.
What is the planned timeline for construction?
The construction phase is scheduled to start in September 2026 and is expected to run through to September 2030. This four-year construction timeline indicates a significant development period, allowing for complex site work and community-sensitive construction methods. The council plans to ensure the project’s delivery aligns with modern safety standards, including adherence to the Building Safety Act, especially for high-rise residential refurbishment or replacement.
How will the contractor be selected for this project?
According to Construction Enquirer, the council is employing a two-stage competitive flexible procurement procedure to select the contractor. Initially, five bidders will be shortlisted to enter a pre-construction services agreement phase. During this phase, bidders will refine project designs from RIBA Stage 3 to Stage 4, prepare necessary Building Safety Act Gateway 2 submissions, and develop an open-book tender for the main construction works. The process aims to foster transparency and ensure detailed design and cost planning before awarding the main contract.
When is the deadline for tender applications, and what is the award timeline?
Tender applications for the regeneration project will close on 21 November 2025. Following the evaluation process, the contract for the contractor is due to be awarded by June 2026. This timeline allows several months for detailed assessment and planning preparation ahead of construction commencement in September 2026.
What preparatory engagement has the council conducted with potential contractors?
As covered by East London Times, Hackney Council hosted a contractor briefing and estate walkabout on 12 June 2025 at Reliance Wharf, aimed at familiarising interested firms with the site and project requirements in advance of tender invitations in the autumn. This proactive approach signals the council’s intent to engage seriously with expert contractors to ensure the regeneration scheme meets technical, community, and safety standards.
What is the significance of this regeneration scheme for Hackney?
The De Beauvoir Estate regeneration is significant for Hackney, aiming to revitalise underused land within a long-standing social housing estate. It targets the improvement of housing quality, provision of affordable homes, and enhancement of local amenities such as public spaces and commercial facilities. This initiative aligns with broader urban renewal and social housing policies to address London’s housing crisis while protecting and enhancing community infrastructure.
What statements have officials or stakeholders made about the project?
While the sources do not quote named officials, the detailed progression of procurement and planning reflects Hackney Council’s commitment to a transparent, phased development approach. The council emphasizes the blend of new affordable housing with public realm upgrades, demonstrating an integrated urban development strategy to foster sustainable community growth.
Hackney’s £150 million De Beauvoir Estate regeneration is poised to transform a substantial part of the borough’s housing stock with 341 new homes, nearly half affordable, delivered through a rigorous procurement and construction process starting late 2026. This project represents a significant public investment in addressing housing demand and urban revitalisation while maintaining a focus on community needs and regulatory compliance.
