Colchester North
The former 53-acre site Betts Factory site situated on the northern edge of Colchester, Essex, located across the administrative boundaries of Colchester and Tendring, included a 20-acre ancient woodland and a 19-acres of poor-quality orchard land.
- Homes
- 321
- Size
- 53 acres
- Stage
- Completed
- Location
- Essex
Careful consideration on design and character were needed to reflect the policy aspirations and individuality of each local authority and the local community, while creating a cohesive and integrated new development.
The redundant factory buildings identified an opportunity to develop a 201-dwelling scheme, removing an industrial use and creating a scheme that responded more appropriately to the surrounding residential environment.
The poor quality orchard land was also brought forward as a separate planning application for an additional 120 dwellings and associated open space. Due to our positive working relationship established as part of the factory site redevelopment, Tendring District Council unanimously approved this scheme at committee.
Both schemes were fully infrastructured to enable ready to develop land parcels. Works included the demolition of existing buildings and hardstanding (90% reused on site), ground remediation, platform creation, construction of the access and utility diversions and connections.
Both the housing developments were sold to housebuilders and we successfully transferred the 20-acres of ancient woodland to Tendring Council delivering an enhanced environmental and community benefit.