Houghton Regis Community Development Charity (HRCDC) is a local charity dedicated to supporting the whole of Houghton Regis, working with residents, partners, and stakeholders to build a healthy, vibrant, thriving, and inclusive community.

Our origins

HRCDC was formed in response to the Houghton Regis North expansion, a major housing development of 7,000 homes across two key sites: Linmere (HRN1) and Bidwell West (HRN2), granted planning permission in 2015. Often, existing residents respond to new housing proposals with concern or objection. However, we believed that when developments are likely to progress, it is far more effective to engage in the planning process, to shape the neighbourhoods that are to come and “build community, not just houses.”

From the outset, the charity was established to represent both existing and future residents, ensuring that wellbeing, quality of life, and strong social infrastructure are at the heart of these new communities. Through attending planning meetings, engaging with local councils, developers, and landowners, HRCDC has actively influenced developments to create spaces that are more connected, inclusive, and responsive to residents’ needs.

Seasons of activity

Our work has developed through different seasons of activity, reflecting the evolving needs of the community.

• Forming: In the early years, the focus was on creating spaces, capital infrastructure, and foundations to enable community life.
• Filling: As residents began moving into the new housing areas around 2020, our attention shifted to community cohesion and activity, including events, engagement, and local initiatives. This period led to the appointment of a community worker, who has since become the Director of the charity, providing leadership and continuity.
• Forming – Phase 2: We are now entering a new season of forming, delivering the community facilities at Bidwell West, including flexible spaces, outdoor areas, and modular buildings that will enable residents to gather, connect, and grow their neighbourhood together.

How we operate

HRCDC’s operational costs are funded through denominational support from Methodist and Baptist churches, alongside partnership agreements with Peabody Community Foundation. This combination allows us to sustain day-to-day activity while delivering long-term projects that benefit the wider community.

Our board of trustees brings together a mix of experience, knowledge, and local insight. It currently includes representatives from Anglican, Baptist, and Methodist traditions, as well as local residents and professionals with specific skills. We are committed to expanding our board further, welcoming new members who share our vision for an empowered and thriving Houghton Regis.

Our vision

HRCDC exists to create a community where people feel connected, supported, and empowered, and where buildings, spaces, and initiatives work together to support wellbeing, social cohesion, and opportunity. We believe that strong communities grow from active engagement, care for one another, and partnership, and we continue to work tirelessly to shape Houghton Regis into a place that residents are proud to call home.