Details
Development 1: Centenary Quay
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock PLC
Brick Names: Leicester Weathered Multi, Dorset Reds
Architect: Crest Nicholson
Development 2: Newlands Place
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock PLC
Brick Names: Leicester Grey Stock, Mercia Orange Multi, Grampian Reds
Architect: Crest Nicholson
About the project
Crest Nicholson is one of the UK’s leading residential developers, delivering high-quality homes and sustainable communities across the South of England and the Midlands. Operating within the mid-premium housing sector, the business combines thoughtful placemaking with a strong operational culture focused on build quality, customer satisfaction, safety and long-term sustainability. In 2025, Crest Nicholson completed 1,691 homes while maintaining a five-star HBF customer satisfaction rating, with more than 90% of customers saying they would recommend the business to a friend.
Quality assurance is embedded throughout the organisation, supported by a “right first time” construction philosophy and rigorous internal review procedures. The business has implemented enhanced quality controls across all operational channels, supported by digital reporting tools that provide greater visibility of customer insight and build performance. During 2025, Crest Nicholson reduced NHBC reportable items by 26% and achieved a 33% reduction in snagging costs through earlier issue resolution, stronger site management and improved customer communication. The company continues to strengthen consistency through standardised house types, enhanced procurement processes and robust governance frameworks that improve accountability across developments.
Health, safety and environmental performance remain central to Crest Nicholson’s operational culture. The business operates a comprehensive SHE management system overseen by a dedicated SHE Committee chaired by the Chief Executive Officer, with performance reviewed at every Board and divisional meeting. Externally accredited through Safety Schemes in Procurement, Crest Nicholson maintains a proactive approach built around individual responsibility, regular site inspections and continuous improvement. In 2025, the business achieved 93.4% SHE inspection compliance, while ongoing audits, reporting procedures and environmental monitoring helped minimise operational risk and improve waste management across sites.
Investment in people and skills development is fundamental to Crest Nicholson’s long-term strategy. The business promotes continuous professional development across all levels of the organisation through structured training, leadership support and employee engagement initiatives. A strong culture of accountability and collaboration is reinforced through regular workforce communication, employee surveys and development programmes designed to improve productivity and customer outcomes. In 2025, 75% of employees participated in the company engagement survey, achieving a strong engagement score of 75%, demonstrating high levels of workforce involvement during a significant business transformation programme. Low employee turnover remains a key performance indicator, supporting continuity, knowledge retention and the development of future talent across the business.
Alongside operational excellence, Crest Nicholson continues to make a significant contribution to the wider communities in which it operates. The business has invested £26.2 million into local infrastructure through Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 agreements, while also advancing ambitious environmental targets including a 65% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions since 2019. Through a combination of responsible governance, customer-focused delivery, workforce investment and sustainable placemaking, Crest Nicholson continues to demonstrate leadership within the UK housebuilding sector.
