Breaking new ground at Vicarage Wood — A celebration of community, craft and connection

Guests were greeted at Frenches Farm, Wigley Bush Lane with smiles, sunshine, and a buzzing sense of anticipation. From the moment the first shovel hit the soil, it was clear this wasn’t just the beginning of a build — it was the beginning of a story.

Adding a touch of theatre to the day, we welcomed back the Harris hawk that had assisted during our earlier demolition works — humanely clearing pigeons from the old buildings on site. Its graceful flight over the grounds felt almost symbolic, marking a natural transition from what once was to what’s now taking shape — a new chapter for this beautiful corner of South Weald.

Guests enjoyed delicious food from The Burger Post, an Essex-based gourmet caterer celebrated for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative street-food style. Their signature burgers and fries proved a hit, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of the day — informal, joyful, and community-centred.

The ceremony featured heartfelt words from local leaders and long-standing supporters of Journey Homes’ community work:

One of the most memorable parts of the day was the burial of a time capsule — a shared symbol of the legacy we’re building at Vicarage Wood.

The capsule, buried on site to be reopened in 25 years time, 2050 was filled with contributions from all our guests and their families. Inside were thoughtful keepsakes and personal touches — from local businesses branded keyrings and brochures, to letters written by guests’ children to their future selves and photographs.

It also included special items from St Peter’s School, reflecting our close relationship with the local community and our shared commitment to education and the next generation — which we’ll be sharing more about in our next post.

The act of burying the capsule captured everything the day represented: optimism, togetherness, and the belief that what we build today should enrich tomorrow.

As a small token of appreciation, each guest received a mini golden shovel — a bespoke keepsake designed to double as a spoon. This playful, meaningful memento captured the spirit of the day and offered guests a tangible reminder of the milestone we celebrated together.

Vicarage Wood embodies everything Journey Homes stands for: craftsmanship, community, and care. Each home will blend traditional design with modern living — from handmade British kitchens to oak bannisters, bi-fold doors, and landscaped gardens — all built responsibly with respect for the local environment and wildlife.

Through our Community Pledge, we continue to:

Enhance the community — by sponsoring local events, supporting St Peter’s School initiatives, and contributing to the South Weald Patronal Festival.

Build sustainably and responsibly — respecting nature, protecting wildlife, and using materials that last.

Support local employment and construction skills — working with regional trades and inspiring the next generation into construction.