In the rapidly expanding housing markets of Hampshire, two prominent developers, Metis Homes and Bargate Homes, have demonstrated a noteworthy pattern of activity that suggests a coordinated strategy to maximise market influence and resource efficiency, and profit.
This article delves into the shared developments, personnel movements, and geographical overlap that indicate a potential strategic alignment between these two developers, raising questions about the sustainability of their practices and the cumulative impact on local communities.
Concerns Over Sustainability and Cumulative Impact
While the coordinated strategy may benefit the developers in terms of market dominance, resource optimisation, and profit, it raises significant concerns about sustainability and the cumulative impact on local communities. . If it is designed as piecemeal developments, where large projects are segmented into smaller ones between connected market players to avoid triggering comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), it undermines the intent of environmental regulations. This tactic results in inadequate scrutiny of the overall environmental and infrastructural impact, leading to strained local resources and diminished quality of life for residents.
Community Opposition and Call for Comprehensive EIAs
Local residents have voiced substantial concerns over the rapid development and its impact on their communities. The lack of comprehensive planning and environmental assessments exacerbates these concerns, leaving residents feeling marginalised and unprotected. There is a growing demand for comprehensive EIAs and better planning practices that consider the overall impact of these developments on the community and the environment.
Financial Incentives and Section 106 Contributions
A significant concern is that by avoiding comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), developers might be minimising their contributions under Section 106 agreements. These agreements typically require developers to contribute to local infrastructure improvements as part of their planning consent. Without thorough EIAs, the full extent of infrastructure needs and environmental impacts may not be properly assessed, leading to insufficient developer contributions. This can adversely impact the quality of life for residents and strain local services and amenities.
Paired Developments in Key Locations
Over the past decade, Metis Homes and Bargate Homes have developed several residential projects in the same geographical regions, particularly focusing on areas like Eastleigh, Winchester, Southampton, and Four Marks & Medstead ward. The simultaneous development activities in these regions suggest a synchronised effort to capitalise on the housing demand.
| Location | Metis Homes: | Bargate Homes |
|---|---|---|
| Eastleigh | Canada Court (2018) | North Stoneham Park (2017) |
| Winchester | Burlington Place (2016) | St Thomas’ Mead (2015) |
| Southampton | Queenswood (2019) | Hamblewood (2023) |
| Four Marks & Medstead ward | The Green, Four Marks (2013), The Shrave (2015), Chapel Fields (2018), Hawthorn Gardens (2020) | Riverwood (2016) Boyneswood Lane (2017) |
Shared Personnel and Close Proximity
The strategic coordination is further evidenced by shared personnel and close office locations. Notably, Sally Frampton, an Advance Sales Manager at Metis Homes, previously held a similar role at Bargate Homes. Similarly, Andy Cherry, a Site Manager at Metis Homes, worked for Bargate Homes for about 14 years. These personnel movements suggest a transfer of knowledge and possibly coordinated efforts between the two companies.
Moreover, Metis Homes and Bargate Homes operate from offices located in close physical proximity, sharing the same postcode. This proximity facilitates regular communication and potential strategic collaboration, enhancing operational efficiency, market influence, and profitability.
Current Developments and Implications
At the time of writing this article, both developers have submitted planning applications in the same ward, which consists of the villages of Medstead and Four Marks. The planning applications are:
- Metis Homes: Planning application 30800/013.
- Bargate Homes: Planning application 55318/001.
These concurrent applications further emphasise the potential coordinated strategy to develop in these regions, likely aiming to maximise their market share and influence while potentially avoiding the comprehensive assessments required for sustainable development.
Conclusion
The pattern of paired developments, shared personnel, and close office proximity strongly suggests a coordinated development strategy between Metis Homes and Bargate Homes. This strategy appears aimed at maximising market influence, operational efficiency, and profitability in key geographical regions such as Eastleigh, Winchester, Southampton, and Four Marks. Despite the lack of a direct corporate link, these factors collectively indicate a strategic alignment that benefits both developers. It is crucial for local authorities to ensure thorough environmental assessments and sustainable development practices to protect the well-being of the community and the environment.