Proposals
A well-integrated community that meets local housing needs while complementing the village’s existing character
The information provided below provides additional information about the scheme including its key proposals and features.
Key features
Proposals carefully designed to meet the local needs of Great Leighs
- A mix of up to 160 high-quality new homes, comprising of family homes, bungalows and starter homes.
- 30% Affordable housing to help support the Council’s local housing need.
- Significant public open spaces carefully designed for recreation, relaxation and social interaction including areas for play.
- Sustainable new walking and cycling routes integrated into the development.
- Close proximity to the new Beaulieu Park Railway Station and future Chelmsford North East Bypass for easy access to Chelmsford, London and beyond.
- A policy-compliant Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) through retained and strengthened boundary vegetation and wildlife enhancements.
- A boost to the local economy through construction and post-construction jobs in addition to greater use of local services and public transport.
- Collaboration with the Council and local service providers to deliver meaningful financial contributions for community infrastructure.
Site location (8.66 ha)
Residential parcel net developable area 4.60 ha, 155–160 dwellings @ 35 dph
Proposed principal route (potentially accommodating a bus route, subject to highways input)
Public open space
Existing vegetation
Indicative attenuation basin (subject to technical input)
Equipped children’s play area
Proposed pedestrian and cycle recreational route
Existing PROW
Extent of cordon sanitaire (medium and high risk areas; as per Bloor Homes drawing no. PA655-EN-202)
Tree protection order (TPOs)
Primary vehicular access (subject to highways input)
Pedestrian and cycle access point (subject to highways input)
Indicative landmark building
Access arrangements
Vehicular and pedestrian access arrangements to enhance sustainability and connectivity
The primary vehicular access point will be located off Main Road at the southwest of the site with pedestrian and cycle connections to Castle Close and Beadle Way to the north. The scheme’s vision is to promote cycling and walking as the primary mode of travel and to enable integration to existing footpaths, cycleways and other infrastructure routes to enhance connectivity.
A gateway location
Providing sustainable growth
The delivery of the Chelmsford North East Bypass represents an opportunity to deliver high-quality and sustainable growth enabling a new gateway to Great Leighs. Bringing forward development to the south of Great Leighs will enable residents to have access of the benefits of the Chelmsford North East Bypass without putting pressure on existing routes running through the village.
Great Leighs has excellent connections to Chelmsford and the A12 in addition to the new Beaulieu Park Railway Station which opened in October 2025 – allowing for quick and convenient access to London Liverpool Street in just 40-minutes.
As a gateway location, the development will alleviate pressure on existing village routes by providing direct and efficient access to major transport links. This will help maintain the tranquillity and charm of the village while supporting sustainable growth.
Potential design
Meeting local needs
The development at Great Leighs could deliver a significant number of new homes to help meet local need, in addition to providing a percentage of affordable housing. The tenure mix and house types are yet to be decided, and we would love to know what is needed locally to ensure the development reflects what is needed.
One key aspect of our initial site layout design is to set back the residential parcels away from Main Road and existing properties to ensure respect and privacy and the setting of the Grade III listed buildings are protected.
Community-focused features and improvements
Our development plan focuses on integrating key features that will significantly benefit the local area. Here are some highlights:
Green Open Space
The new development will deliver a significant area of green open space that will be accessible to all, designed to foster community activities and recreational opportunities.
New Landscaping and Trees
We will introduce high-quality landscaping throughout the site, including planting new trees to complement the local landscape and enhance the area’s visual appeal.
Existing vegetation along the boundaries of the site will also be retained, protected and enhanced where possible.
Play Areas
The proposals also include a Local Equipped Area for Play (LEAP), incorporated to the south of the site, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children and families.
Cycling and Walking Routes
The site will feature improved walking and cycling routes, promoting healthier lifestyles and better connectivity within the community.
Biodiversity Enhancements
The landscape proposals mentioned above will work hand in hand to promote a Biodiversity Net Gain of at least 10%, enhancing habitats and wildlife on-site.
