New Moulsecoomb streets named by local residents

Residents have helped to pick names for new streets being created in Moulsecoomb, as a part of the new Moulsecoomb housing and community hub development.

Following a resident poll in the autumn, the new streets will be called Flintfield Drive, Thorncroft Close and Chalkvale Mews.

The names are inspired by the local history, topography and the geology of the area.

Construction work on the site has begun, and is expected to be completed in 2029.

A flagship scheme

The Moulsecoomb hub and housing scheme combines more than 200 new sustainable council homes for rent, with a vibrant community hub, delivering wide-ranging social, economic and environmental benefits for the local community.

The residential scheme is made up of eight blocks with a mix of flat types within each block, and 4 pairs of 4-bedroom semi-detached townhouses to respond to different resident needs and form a well-balanced community.

All homes will have access to private outdoor spaces in the form of gardens, balconies or patios.

Fifteen new homes will be fully wheelchair accessible. In addition, 20 homes will be provided as ‘Mobility 2’ units, for residents who do not need fully adapted accommodation, but require some assistance.

The design of the community hub reflects the area’s industrial heritage, drawing inspiration from local historic buildings, including Moulsecoomb Hall and the railway viaduct.

It will provide a range of services and facilities under one roof, including a GP surgery, pharmacy, library, youth centre, adult learning and a community café.

The development will also include a skate park and a 7-a-side 3G football pitch located on a nearby greenfield site.

Usability for all ages and abilities

Public realm and landscape design is central to the scheme, with carefully planned routes, ramps, and gathering spaces that connect the community and enhance usability for all ages and abilities to create a safe, inclusive, and accessible environment.

A variety of green spaces including pocket parks, shared streets and recreational facilities will be provided to maximise opportunities for all residents to engage with open, outdoor spaces and connect the scheme to the surrounding wooded slopes, and to the South Downs.

Opportunities for greener modes of transport will be supported through pedestrian and cycle friendly street design.

Residents of the new homes will have safe pedestrian routes through to the neighbouring primary school, and easy access to the Brighton BikeShare pickup point, to Moulsecoomb train station, and to bus stops leading to the centre of Brighton, the nearby football stadium, and university sites.

The design of the project was shaped by residents’ views following a series of ‘planning for real’ sessions, where more than 200 residents gave feedback on what they’d like to see and shared potential concerns.

Development shortlisted for major award

The scheme was shortlisted for the ‘Best development’ category in the Inside Housing Development Awards.

The awards celebrate the UK’s most outstanding residential developments, highlighting the innovation and resilience driving the sector forward.

The shortlist showcases outstanding projects and initiatives which shape the future of housing, delivering quality, sustainable housing and transforming communities.

A beautiful and enduring neighbourhood

Councillor Gill Williams, Cabinet member for Housing and New Homes, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who had their say in the naming the new streets in the Moulsecoomb development. These reflect the history and geography of the local area and we hope these help cement this ambitious scheme as an adaptable and enduring addition to the neighbourhood.

“It’s an ambitious scheme and it’s great to see it shortlisted for this prestigious Inside Housing award, especially at such early stage.

“The construction work on the scheme has now started and we’re really looking forward to seeing the development begin to take shape.”

• Visit the Moulsecoomb housing and community hub webpages