Story posted: 19/12/2025
Sempra Homes has proudly named its new Broadmayne development Sheppard Mews, in honour of World War II veteran and much-loved Basildon resident Don Sheppard.
The official naming took place at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday 16 December at the new development in Basildon, attended by the Leader of the Council, Cllr Gavin Callaghan, members of the Sheppard family, representatives from Sempra Homes and Basildon Council.
Don Sheppard served as a sapper with the Royal Engineers, 51st Highland Division, during the Second World War. Conscribed in 1940, he landed on Juno Beach in Normandy in June 1944 at the age of just 24. Amidst conditions he later described as “littered” with the bodies of fallen Canadian soldiers, Don fought his way inland and reached Pegasus Bridge, helping to secure one of the most strategically vital locations of the D-Day landings.
His extraordinary service and lifelong commitment to his community were formally recognised in 2019, when he was awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Basildon. Don was widely regarded as a warm, kind and humble man, a passionate advocate for veterans and a proud ambassador for Basildon. His courage, dedication and message of peace have left an enduring mark on the borough’s history.
Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Strategy, said: “We promised that Don Sheppard’s legacy would live on in Basildon, and naming this stunning new development after him is a powerful way of keeping that promise.
“It is a privilege to open Sheppard Mews – a development that not only delivers high-quality homes, but also honours an individual whose service, courage and dedication made a lasting difference to our community.
“By naming this development after Don Sheppard, we ensure that future generations are reminded of the values he embodied: bravery, sacrifice and community spirit.”
Joanna O’Brien, Don’s daughter said: “We are deeply proud and honoured to see Don’s name live on in the heart of Basildon. This recognition means a great deal to our family and reflects the love and respect the community had for him. We hope Sheppard Mews will stand as a lasting reminder of his service and the values he believed in.
“Our gratitude and appreciation go to all involved in the conception of naming an estate after Don through to today's ribbon cutting. As a family we are deeply touched by this honour and believe Don would be very proud.”
Melanie Keys, Services Manager at Sempra Homes, comments, “At Sempra Homes, we believe new developments should do more than provide high-quality homes – and should reflect and celebrate the communities they serve. Naming this development Sheppard Mews is a heartfelt tribute to Don Sheppard’s extraordinary service, and lifelong dedication to Basildon.
“It has been a real privilege to honour Don’s legacy in a meaningful and lasting way. We hope that Sheppard Mews will not only be a wonderful place to live, but also a daily reminder of the values of courage, service and community spirit that Don embodied.”
