East Anglia’s largest privately-owned housebuilder Hopkins Homes has submitted a reserved matters application to provide a 246-home development at Beaulieu, in Chelmsford, Essex.
The development will offer a range of homes to suit all buyers, from one-bedroom apartments through to five-bedroom detached houses, along with 67 affordable homes and a small retail centre.
The development will be situated in the new Beaulieu community. The Beaulieu masterplan aims to create a 3,600-home community for Chelmsford.
Simon Bryan, development director for Hopkins Homes, said: “Hopkins Homes is renowned for creating distinctive homes and environments that are rich in character and heritage, whilst offering energy efficient modern living. We are delighted to bring this approach to Chelmsford.
“Our aim is to not only meet the demand for local housing but also to contribute positively to the community. We understand the importance of preserving the local environment and have taken great care in designing the development to complement the existing landscape.”
Environmental benefits of the proposed development include a range of landscaping with native tree and shrub species, as well as the incorporation of bird and bat boxes, and hedgehog tunnels.
This will contribute to the overall biodiversity and ecological value of the site, promoting the well-being of wildlife populations within and around the development.
Energy-saving measures being introduced will result in a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
Bryan added: “We are excited about the prospects of Beaulieu and the opportunity to contribute to the development of a thriving and sustainable community in Chelmsford.
“By adhering to our commitment to superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and integration with the local surroundings, we believe this development will be a valuable addition to the area and provide residents with a place they can proudly call home.”
The 16-acre site at Beaulieu was the first major flagship acquisition for Hopkins Homes since its acquisition by private equity firm Terra Firma in early 2022. The submission of the reserved matters application follows the approval of outline planning permission.
Hopkins Homes also has a planning application for a landscape-led development of 360 new homes, and a country park on land north of Maldon Road, Sandford Park, Great Baddow is currently under consideration by Chelmsford City Council.
