The Solution
Big change, one small site at a time
Every small, forgotten plot of land in Brighton & Hove has the potential to become a lifeline for families in need. Mission: HOME is championing a simple, powerful idea: use the land we already have to build high-quality social homes where they’re needed most.
What is small site housing?
Small site housing means creating permanent, well-designed family homes on pieces of land that are currently sitting idle, from old garages and unused car parks to leftover pockets between buildings. These spaces are carefully transformed to fit the neighbourhood, strengthen communities, and give families the security of a real home.
Why small sites work
Blends into neighbourhoods
Homes are designed around each individual site so they complement the area and enhance local streets.
Delivers homes faster
Because the land is already owned by the council and ready to be repurposed, projects can move from idea to build much more quickly.
Cost-effective
Smaller sites reduce upfront costs and make better use of public land, stretching the council’s housing budget further.
Scalable and repeatable
Brighton & Hove has many of these unused pockets of land, transforming them one by one adds up to real change.
Proven approach
Inspired by successful programmes in Bristol and other cities that have turned overlooked sites into homes for families.
Already underway
Our first target site has been identified in Woodingdean. With council support, it could deliver homes for four families currently trapped in temporary accommodation. This is just one of dozens of small spaces across Brighton & Hove that could be turned into secure, permanent homes.
The planning portal is now closed but our campaign gathered over 200 supportive comments. We await the decision on the build as we look for more sites in the city.
Why it matters
When we unlock small, unused plots of land, we create more than houses. We create stability. We create fresh starts. We create neighbourhoods that welcome families back into community life. These once-forgotten spaces become the foundation for belonging and a demonstration that Brighton can lead with compassion, creativity, and common sense.
Help turn forgotten spaces into family homes
Sign up for campaign updates and join a growing movement to make small sites part of Brighton’s future.
Meet the girl behind the mission
Meet Scarlett – a 15-year-old activist who believes no child should spend their childhood in temporary accommodation. Busking since the age of 8, she’s raised over £10,000 for homelessness causes and is now leading Mission: HOME to make sure families in Brighton & Hove have a safe place to call home.
