Developments

Essex County Council’s new sustainable housing development secures planning permission

21 May 2025

10 brand new sustainable family homes and a purpose-built community facility for Chelmsford has been signed off by planners this week.

The brand-new development approved this week will see redevelopment of Hargrave House in Great Baddow, Chelmsford. The project will be the first of its kind for Essex Housing, Essex County Council’s award winning development team and it is hoped will set a new standard for homes in Essex. Plans approved include 10 sustainable homes and a new facility for Kids Inspire, a children’s mental health charity providing free, specialist trauma recovery support to children and families.

Developed in collaboration with Stanley Bragg Architects, all houses exceed Future Homes Standards and offer air source heat pumps and solar PV panels. Other sustainable features include incorporating natural insulation, timber cladding, fired-clay brick alternatives, and cement replacement materials.

Work will now begin on technical design and tendering for a contractor to construct the scheme.