Denbury Homes, based in Westley, Bury St Edmunds, appoints new CEO

A homebuilder has appointed a new CEO to help drive growth plans.

Lee Barnard has joined Denbury Homes, based in Westley, near Bury St Edmunds, and will oversee day-to-day operations.

He will work alongside Joshua Hopkins, recently promoted to MD, as the company pursues ambitious targets.

Lee Barnard previously worked with executive chairman James Hopkins for 23 years. He led the Hopkins Group prior to the sale of Hopkins Homes.

Denbury Homes then evolved from Hopkins Homes’ former sister company Hopkins and Moore,

Lee Barnard said: “The progress Denbury Homes has made in the three years since the separation from Hopkins Homes has been impressive.

“Securing a major funding package and recognition as an HBF five-star rated builder has placed the company firmly on the regional map.”

The funding package from HSBC is expected to support the company as it looks to increase its build rate by 350 per cent with an ambition to be building up to 450 homes a year by 2029.

Denbury Homes fully launched its flagship development St Edmunds Gate, Bury St Edmunds, in January 2025.

Lee added: “St Edmunds Gate is a testament to our ambition; it will deliver in the region of 900 homes and contribute £15.5 million to the community through S106 payments.

“We now have two show homes open which embody the build quality and attention to detail which the entire team at Denbury Homes prides themselves on.

“The level of interest and the reservations we have secured so far demonstrate that our homes are appealing to both local buyers and those from further afield.”

Denbury Homes has recently completed a development in Norfolk and says launches in Cambridgeshire and Essex have been well received.

Lee said: “It’s fantastic to see our reputation proceeding us as we open sites beyond our traditional heartland.

“We build well-designed homes that are in keeping with the regional landscape and that is something that resonates with communities and homebuyers in any area.

“Joshua and his team are working to secure some very exciting opportunities to continue our expansion. I’m delighted to have joined Denbury Homes at such a pivotal moment in its development.

“As well as securing funding, Denbury Homes has invested heavily in updating its full range of home designs.”

Lee said: ““We’ve enjoyed an excellent start to the year. I’m looking forward to driving our continued success.”