Latimer, the development arm of Clarion Housing Group, has been appointed development partner for a new 9,000-home garden community in East Colchester, Essex
Working alongside Colchester Borough Council, Tendring District Council and Essex County Council, Latimer will act as master developer to deliver up to 9,000 new homes at the new garden community.
There will be an extensive programme of community and stakeholder engagement over the summer and early autumn to help shape the masterplan for the area.
The plans include a Country Park, commercial space, provision of primary and secondary school facilities and significant employment opportunities for local people.
A new rapid transit system and improved cycling infrastructure will enable easy access to Colchester and beyond, with a link road also joining up the A133 and A120.
The proposals will focus on delivering a sustainable 21st century garden community where people aspire to live, work and visit.
‘Setting a new standard for affordable homes’
Richard Cook, group director of development at Clarion Housing Group, said: “We’re excited to be working with Mersea Homes and the combined authorities to develop this innovative and sustainable garden community, providing thousands of much-needed affordable homes and employment opportunities over the next 30 years.
“Placemaking is at the heart of what we do at Latimer, and this project presents an opportunity for us to set a new standard for the delivery of affordable and private homes, community facilities and employment opportunities whilst improving connectivity in the North Essex area.
“We want to create a lasting legacy by delivering high-quality sustainable new homes of mixed tenure that meet the varied needs of people for generations to come.”
Stuart Cock, managing director of Mersea Homes, added: “I’m really pleased today to confirm Latimer as Mersea Homes’ development partner for the garden community.
“This is the beginning of an exciting and important journey as we work together with local communities plus Colchester, Tendring and Essex Councils to deliver a high-quality place for people to live and thrive in.
“Mersea Homes has been building homes locally for over 70 years and I have always been a huge advocate of the local area, having lived here all my life. This is a wonderful opportunity.”
