Berkeley Homes has lodged a planning application with Bromley Council for the Ravensbourne Place project, which aims to build 2,200 homes on green belt land surrounding Norman Park and Bromley Football Club. The site is currently largely occupied by horse paddocks.
Project Overview and Opposition
First announced last year, the scheme has faced significant opposition from local residents, politicians, and horse grazers. Critics express concerns about building on the green belt and the potential strain on local roads and infrastructure from a large influx of new residents.
Berkeley Homes argues that the development will bring substantial benefits, including thousands of new homes, with half designated as affordable, along with a high percentage of family-sized homes. The project also promises to open up swathes of previously private land for public access.
Neighborhood Design and Green Spaces
The homes will be situated in two clusters: Bromley Gate to the north, described as having a “more compact and denser urban form,” and Hayes Mead to the south, offering a “softer, greener setting inspired by village character.” The developer plans to integrate, enhance, and expand existing natural features, creating new habitats and encouraging outdoor recreation through pedestrian and cycle paths.
Ravensbourne Place will include new recreational and community-focused green spaces connecting Norman Park to the new homes, as well as community allotments and orchards. A health centre is also planned between Bromley Football Club and Hayes Lane.
Financial Contributions and Phasing
Berkeley has promised a financial contribution for improvements to Norman Park if the project is approved, including upgrading playgrounds and sports pavilions, building outdoor gyms, and adding seating and picnic areas.
The development will be delivered in four phases, starting with the southern side of Hayes Mead, just north of George Lane. Construction is hoped to commence in 2028 and continue until 2049. The first phase includes 578 homes, ranging from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom houses, with the majority being three- and four-bedroom homes. All houses will have at least one parking space, with larger homes receiving two.
Full plans are available on Bromley Council’s planning portal (reference 26/02199/OUT), with a decision scheduled for September.
