For just over 100 years, the former Nestlé factory in Hayes has played a significant role in the area’s industrial story. A familiar landmark in the local area, it was originally opened in 1913 by eccentric chocolatier and bodybuilder Eugen Sandow, before changing hands in 1929 to become the first factory outside of Switzerland to manufacture the Nestlé Milky Bar.

Today, the site has been transformed into Hayes Village by Barratt London, creating a new residential neighbourhood while paying tribute to the area’s rich heritage.

To help residents and the wider community connect with this history, Barratt London hosted an interactive educational workshop at Hayes Village, exploring the history of Hayes and the evolution of the former Nestlé factory into a new residential development.

Delivered in partnership with the Chair of Hayes Town Partnership, the session guided attendees through the area’s development over time, the heritage of the site and how today’s community at Hayes Village integrates with the wider history.

The workshop explored key moments in Hayes’ development, from its early rural origins to its expansion alongside the Grand Union Canal and railway connections, which helped establish the area as a centre for manufacturing and distribution.

The session formed part of Barratt London’s ongoing community activity at Hayes Village, creating opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with its rich history.

Due to complete in 2030, Hayes Village will deliver 1,473 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, comprising a mix of new properties and sensitively refurbished homes within the former factory buildings. Forming part of a wider regeneration programme in the area, the development will also provide landscaped green space and improved public realm.

Joseph Antoniazzi, Director of Sales & Marketing for Barratt London comments:

“The former Nestlé factory has long been part of Hayes’ identity, and as Hayes Village continues to take shape, we are committed to remembering the role it played within the community and the importance of carrying this sense of identity forward.

“By hosting this workshop, we wanted to give residents and visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s history and understand how the development fits into that wider context, as the next chapter in its story. At Hayes Village, we are creating a neighbourhood that reflects the character of Hayes and fosters the same sense of community for generations to come.”

Hayes Village benefits from strong transport connections via Hayes and Harlington station, served by the Elizabeth Line with direct services into central London. The development also offers access to the Grand Union Canal alongside a range of on-site amenities to support modern living.

Prices at Hayes Village start from £310,000 for a studio apartment, with selected homes ready to move into now.