Plans for 281 new homes in Heybridge met with objections from residents amid concerns over local infrastructure

By Ben Shahrabi 3rd Aug 2023

Local News by Ben Shahrabi 3rd Aug 2023

Plans to build 281 homes east of Broad Street Green in Heybridge have already been met with objections from residents, due to concerns over local infrastructure.

Developer Charles Church submitted a planning application at the end of June, which was validated last month. Of the 11 comments received on the application so far, all of them have objected to it.

In the Design and Access Statement, developers say they visited the surrounding area to "take inspiration from key local buildings" in the design of the proposed dwellings.

A Charles Church spokesperson said: "This ensures the proposed dwellings complement and enhance the existing character and appearance of Heybridge but are also unique and bespoke to this part of the region."

Around 112 of the homes proposed, 40 per cent, would be considered 'affordable homes'. A new retirement community would also be built, including 14 bungalows and wheelchair-accessible homes.

Charles Church says its 'house type' designs have been inspired by visits to the local area. (Credit: Charles Church)

A new bus stop would be added along Broad Street Green. Other stops along the road currently have bus services to Colchester and Witham.

However, residents have shared concerns they feel the bus service is "unreliable".

"Bus routes are being cut and are not currently covering the whole of Heybridge," one resident commented.

"Estates being built are now dependent on residents being able to drive. Any obstruction in Heybridge, which has always been a bottle neck, causes grid lock in the village and in Maldon town."

The developer says there are two healthcare services a 14-minute walk from the site. Both the Heybridge (Branch) Surgery, administered by Longfield Medical Centre, and the Blackwater Medical Centre are said to be accepting new patients.

However, residents claim the latter currently has 12,500 registered patients and is a 38-minute walk away.

"The two GP surgeries are already overwhelmed with the number of patients registered and it is almost impossible to get an appointment," another resident commented.

In its Design and Access Statement, Charles Church says it "often helps to fund" new roads, community centres, doctors' surgeries, schools, green open spaces, and children's play areas.

The plans will be discussed by Heybridge Parish Council on Monday (August 7), after which their recommendation will be passed on to Maldon District Council.