Greystones

A Sensitive Redevelopment of a Historic Estate

The Greystones Estate in Highcliffe, Christchurch is set for a thoughtful transformation, with Christchurch Housing Society bringing forward proposals for 185 affordable age-restricted homes. The scheme involves replacing seven outdated housing blocks, increasing capacity from 144 to 185 dwellings, while also reinstating sea views from the much-loved Grade II listed Greystones House.

This redevelopment is a rare opportunity: it combines much-needed modern housing for residents over 60 with the conservation of one of Highcliffe’s most important heritage sites, ensuring the estate is sustainable, accessible, and welcoming for future generations.

Greystones: Heritage at the Heart

At the centre of the estate stands Greystones House, a Grade II listed Arts and Crafts building designed by Edward Schroder Prior and completed in 1913. Today, it serves as a community hub run by the Highcliffe Community Association.

The surrounding housing, built in the 1960s, no longer meets current expectations — cramped layouts, poor energy performance, and a generic design that obscures views of the coast and diminishes the setting of the listed house. The redevelopment will re-establish the historic relationship between Greystones House and the sea, while securing the long-term use of the community centre.

Key Elements of the Proposal

• 185 Affordable Age-Restricted Homes
  • Spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments, replacing outdated studio flats.
  • All homes meet modern space standards and include balconies or patios.
  • Improved thermal performance to reduce fuel costs.
• Landscape and Setting
  • Reconfigured blocks restore sea views and enhance the setting of Greystones House.
  • Retention of all mature trees, supplemented by 85 new tree plantings.
  • Gardens and communal green spaces preserved and improved.
• Community Focus
  • Continued use of Greystones House by the Highcliffe Community Association, with activities, library services, lunch clubs and events.
  • Homes positioned to strengthen connections with the community centre.
• Sustainability and Infrastructure
  • Energy-efficient construction to meet current building regulations.
  • Enhanced refuse and recycling systems.
  • Dedicated storage for cycles and mobility scooters.
  • Improved parking and access across the site.

Developed with the Community

The proposals have been shaped by dialogue with residents, Historic England, and BCP Council. Feedback gathered during public consultations in 2024–25 highlighted strong support for larger homes, private balconies, restored sea views, and retention of green spaces. Concerns about construction have been addressed through a phased approach that avoids resident displacement.

Meeting Local Housing Needs

Christchurch faces rising demand for affordable homes tailored to older residents. This redevelopment will:

• Provide 41 additional affordable homes.
• Ensure all units are let at local reference rents, well below market rates.
• Secure affordability in perpetuity via a Section 106 agreement.

The scheme directly supports Christchurch’s ageing population while contributing to the broader housing strategy across the BCP area.

Looking Ahead

The Greystones Estate redevelopment balances heritage, housing, and sustainability. By replacing outdated blocks with high-quality, affordable homes and enhancing the setting of a Grade II listed building, the project will deliver long-term social and environmental benefits.

For over half a century, Greystones has provided homes for older residents. This redevelopment ensures it will continue to do so — with dignity, comfort, and a stronger sense of place — for decades to come.

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