O’Flynn Group’s Proposal for Building a New Town in Britain Unveiled

Ambitious Plan for New Town in England Proposed

Teh O’Flynn Group, spearheaded by Cork-based property developer Michael O’Flynn, has presented a proposal to the British government for the construction of a new town in southeast England, perhaps adding 20,000 homes to the region’s housing stock.

background: The New Towns Task Force

In September 2024, the British Ministry of Housing established the New Towns Task Force, an autonomous expert advisory panel. The task force aims to support the government in the growth of new towns across the country and invited submissions for suitable sites capable of accommodating at least 10,000 homes. To date, they have received over 100 responses, with London and the southern and eastern areas of England representing the majority of submissions.

The Proposed Development

The O’Flynn Group has partnered with Irish businessman John Magnier to develop a 4,200-acre plot of land in Hampshire, acquired by Magnier in 2017 for a reported €52 million. the development plan, submitted to the British government in December 2024, includes a provision for 40% affordable housing.The proposal envisions between 15,000 and 20,000 homes on Magnier’s land.

Past Plans and Local Sentiment

Development plans for the site have been in discussion for several years. Previous proposals from the O’Flynn Group sought to build up to 6,000 homes, along with business spaces, schools, and a central town area. However, these plans have faced local opposition.

O’flynn’s perspective

During a recent Property Industry Ireland event, O’Flynn voiced his opinion that Britain, especially with Labor in power, offers a “breath of fresh air” due to their proactive approach to addressing the housing undersupply. He contrasted this with what he perceives as a lack of action by the Irish Government regarding their own Housing Commission report. O’Flynn also acknowledged his existing business interests in Britain.

Task Force Report and Future Outlook

The New Towns taskforce is expected to release its final report by the summer of 2025, including a list of potential locations for new towns. The focus on addressing housing shortages through innovative development approaches, such as the proposed new town in Hampshire, shows the proactiveness in tackling housing challenges.

Additional Facts

• The project aims to alleviate housing shortages while integrating sustainable and affordable housing options.
• Local community engagement and addressing concerns will be critical for the project’s success.

The successful implementation of this project hinges on collaboration between developers, local communities, and government bodies. Keep an eye on further developments regarding the New Towns Taskforce report and the progression of this substantial housing initiative.

How sustainable is the proposed advancement, considering its impact on the natural environment and commitment to eco-pleasant practices?

“A Breath of Fresh Air: An Interview wiht Michael O’Flynn on England’s Enterprising new Town Plan”

Speaking to: Michael O’Flynn, Chairman and CEO, The O’Flynn Group

اة Introduction

In an effort to address England’s housing shortage, the British government is considering ambitious plans for new towns.One such proposal, submitted by The O’Flynn Group in partnership with businessman John Magnier, envisions a new town in Hampshire with anywhere from 15,000 to 20,000 homes. We sit down with the colorful and outspoken Michael O’Flynn, the driving force behind this ambitious project, to discuss the New Towns’ Task Force, the proposed development, local sentiment, and the future of housing in England.

ِARCHYDE: Michael, thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right in. Can you tell our readers more about The New Towns Task Force and how your proposal fits into this initiative?

Michael O’Flynn: Thank you for having me. The New Towns Task Force is an autonomous expert advisory panel established by the British Ministry of Housing last September. They’re inviting submissions for sites capable of accommodating at least 10,000 homes,and we believe our 4,200-acre plot in Hampshire fits the bill perfectly. We’re proposing between 15,000 to 20,000 homes, with 40% set aside for affordable housing.

ِARCHYDE: quite an ambitious plan.What makes this project unique, and why should England embrace this opportunity?

Michael O’Flynn: well, this project is unique for several reasons.First, it’s a genuinely mixed-use development, balancing residential needs with commercial spaces, schools, and a central town area. Second, we’re putting sustainability at the heart of our plans, aiming to create a sustainable community that blends with the natural environment. Lastly, we’re committed to engaging with the local community, addressing their concerns, and incorporating their ideas into our plans.

ِARCHYDE: You’ve been involved in previous development plans for this site. What lessons have you learned from past proposals, and how are you addressing local opposition?

Michael O’Flynn: Indeed, we’ve discussed plans for this site before. In the past, we underestimated the value of community engagement, and that’s a lesson we’ve taken to heart. This time around, we’re committed to including the local community in our planning process right from the start. We’ll create a platform for open dialog, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.

ِARCHYDE: You’ve spoken publicly about your optimism regarding Britain’s proactive approach to housing. How does this project align with the Labor government’s housing agenda?

Michael O’Flynn: Absolutely, I believe Britain offers a ‘breath of fresh air’ in terms of addressing housing undersupply. This project aligns perfectly with the Labor government’s agenda. They’re committed to tackling housing challenges through innovative development approaches like this. By providing a mix of affordable and market-rate housing, we’re directly addressing the need for more homes and helping to make homeownership a reality for more people.

ِARCHYDE: With the final report from the New Towns Task Force expected this summer,what are your hopes for the future of housing in England,and how does your project fit into this vision?

Michael O’Flynn: My hope is that the Task Force’s report kickstarts a wave of innovative,sustainable housing projects that genuinely engage with local communities. The Hampshire new town project is more than just a development; it’s a chance to create a sustainable, vibrant community that addresses the housing shortage and sets a new standard for development in England.

ِARCHYDE: Michael, thank you for your time and insights. As our interview comes to a close, we have one thought-provoking question for you. If you could sum up your vision for the Hampshire new town project in one sentence, what would it be?

Michael O’Flynn: A harmonious blend of sustainability, affordability, and community, Setting a new standard for development in England.

ِARCHYDE: Thank you once again,Michael. We’ll be watching the progress of this project with great interest.