Cala Homes has appointed James Dunne as Managing Director of its Southern regional business, as the housebuilder works to expand its development pipeline across Hampshire, Dorset and Southern Wiltshire.

Dunne brings more than 30 years’ experience in housebuilding to the role, having started his career in engineering before moving into senior positions with Bovis Homes and Barratt David Wilson.

He will lead Cala Southern’s growth strategy following the establishment of the business in 2025.

Cala Southern has 2,625 homes under development

Cala Southern currently has live developments in Basingstoke, Fordingbridge, Wimborne and Winchester, with the sites collectively set to deliver 2,625 homes.

The business also controls or has terms agreed on 12 further sites with the potential to deliver around 2,500 homes.

James Dunne, Managing Director of Cala Homes (Southern), said: “It’s great to be joining such an ambitious team here at Cala Southern. Our strategy to expand Cala’s presence across Central South and Southwest of England is well underway, and the business is in a strong position for future growth.

“The team has established itself as a trusted development partner in the region and Cala Southern currently controls or has terms agreed on 12 new sites with the potential to deliver 2,500 new homes.

Our dedicated land and planning team is actively seeking immediate land opportunities, with or without planning permission, as we help meet the growing demand for high-quality new homes in the region.

“I’m looking forward to building on the impressive start the team has made, strengthening relationships across the region and identifying new opportunities to support our long-term growth ambitions.”

Housebuilder targets further regional expansion

Cala said its Southern business is continuing to build its land and planning pipeline as it looks to expand its presence across the Central South and South West of England.

Tom Nicholson, CEO at Cala, said: “James is a fantastic appointment for Cala Southern, and I’m delighted to welcome him to the business. He joins at an exciting stage in the region’s development, with a strong team already in place and solid foundations established for future success.

“His extensive experience across the housebuilding industry makes him exceptionally well placed to take the region forward. I am confident he will build on the momentum already achieved, strengthen our presence across the Central South and Southwest, and continue delivering outstanding outcomes for our customers, communities and stakeholders.”

Dunne’s appointment comes as Cala Southern progresses its existing developments and seeks further land opportunities across the region.