Interwar Ribbon Development

1920s-1930s

The interwar period brought the first tentative expansion of Hedge End beyond its historic boundaries. Ribbon development, the building of houses along main roads, added a scattering of new homes along the lanes and roads through the area. Mains electricity, water and sewerage services began to reach the settlement, making it more attractive for residential development. Motor buses and the growing use of private cars supplemented the railway connection, and the area began to attract residents who worked in Southampton or Fareham but preferred a quieter, semi-rural setting.