Date published: 26 June 2025
Stonewater has confirmed the appointment of James Bradbury as its new Group Director of Growth and Development.
A well-known and valued figure within the organisation, James brings significant experience and leadership across affordable housing delivery.
James began at Stonewater as a Regional Development Manager from its inception in 2015, having previously worked for Raglan. He then took on senior roles overseeing broader regional development projects and has held the role of Director of Development Operations since 2019.
His appointment reflects Stonewater’s commitment to strong, stable leadership across its development function and supports the organisation’s continued focus on building high-quality homes and communities.
The announcement follows the recent appointment of Jonathan Layzell as Chief Executive and reinforces Stonewater’s strategic direction and delivery focus.
On his appointment, James Bradbury said, “I’m delighted to be stepping into this role at such a pivotal time for both Stonewater and the wider housing sector.
“With a strong development pipeline and our recent Top 8 ranking in this year’s Inside Housing Biggest Builders survey, Stonewater is perfectly positioned to support the Government’s ambitious housebuilding targets alongside our valued partners, suppliers and stakeholders.”
Jonathan Layzell, Chief Executive of Stonewater, said: “James has played a pivotal role in shaping our development programme and delivering homes that meet the needs of customers and communities.
“His understanding of the sector and strong leadership credentials make him the right person to take our ambitions forward and I’m confident he’ll continue to make a positive and lasting impact.”
This announcement comes just days after the Government unveiled its 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy, which Stonewater has welcomed as a bold and much-needed framework for future investment in housing and infrastructure.
With a headline capital commitment of £725 billion, the Strategy aligns with Stonewater’s mission to build safe, sustainable homes and support thriving communities.
It follows a significant boost to the sector announced in the Spending Review earlier this month, with £39bn for the Affordable Homes Programme, a 10-year rent settlement at CPI+1 and the continuation of the Warm Homes Plan providing the sector with long-term certainty.
James added: “The Infrastructure Strategy provides a much stronger framework for planning, delivery and investment and is a hugely positive indicator of the value the Government places in the sector.
“Alongside the additional funding announced in the Spending Review earlier this month, the sector as a whole is primed to accelerate the delivery of affordable, energy-efficient homes for the people and communities we serve.”