Transformation of former prison site brings 183 much-needed affordable homes to Portsmouth

A former prison site in Portsmouth has been transformed into 183 new affordable homes, the largest single affordable housing development in the city for over 20 years.

VIVID and Portsmouth City Council worked in partnership on the scheme on the former Kingston Prison site.

The provider of affordable homes and support services says it demonstrates the role housing associations and local authorities can play in regenerating complex urban sites and reducing housing waiting lists.

According to VIVID, the average house price in Portsmouth is over seven times average salary.

As a result many people cannot afford new homes built to modern standards on the open market in Portsmouth.

Following the closure of Kingston Prison in 2013, it was purchased the following year by a developer as part of a portfolio of prison sites.

A consultation was held on plans for a museum but, instead, an exclusive private residential scheme was put forward.

This was initially turned down by Portsmouth City Council’s planning team which felt that some of the homes should be affordable to support the city’s housing needs.

The concept of converting the old prison into homes while protecting its architecture and heritage took on a new life when planning was submitted in 2016.

In addition to the original prison being transformed into luxury apartments, a proposal to deliver all of the new-build homes as affordable homes was submitted.

VIVID provided the commercial backing, working closely with Homes England and the city’s planning team.

The application was supported by Portsmouth City Council, enabling VIVID to deliver on its promises and develop the largest single affordable housing development in the city for over 20 years.

Tristan Samuels, Group Director of Development and New Business at VIVID, said: “Our strong partnerships with the council and Homes England enabled this development of affordable homes to happen, with 110 for social rent and 73 for shared ownership.

“Together we have the expertise and financial strength to complete these types of projects where many would think it isn’t possible.

“These homes are vital to people of Portsmouth and the economic growth of the region.

“We’re delighted to have been involved in this development, now called Kingston Place, to create a thriving community in the heart of the city.”

VIVID worked in partnership with housebuilder Drew Smith, part of the Vistry Group.

Cllr Hugh Mason, Cabinet Member for Planning Policy & City Development at Portsmouth City Council, said: “Delivering affordable housing options is a cornerstone of building strong communities in Portsmouth.

“Through our partnership with VIVID, we’ve demonstrated how we as a council and the private sector can work together effectively to increase the amount of affordable housing in our city.”