When the 25.4 hectare site of Hellingly Hospital became available in 1998, Gleeson
Strategic Land successfully secured a conditional contract and began the process of promoting development in accordance with the emerging Local Plan policy.

The application - along with a full environmental assessment - consisted of some 400 houses (including 18 homes within the converted ward blocks), a new primary school, space for local community activities and an 11 hectare park incorporating a sports pavilion and meeting hall, a range of new of design, layout and construction to and restored habitats and reed beds as part of a sustainable urban drainage system.

Throughout the ensuing period, Gleeson fostered an open dialogue with both local government officers and elected council members, regularly meeting with the parish council, the town council and representatives of the established community park trust.
As a result of this relationship, all of the aspirations and concerns of the various interested parties were fully reflected in the eventual development proposals.