650 new homes could be built in Basildon by developer

Developer EA Strategic Land LLP is behind initial proposals to build 650 homes on a huge piece of open space on the land to the north and south of London Road.

In the Basildon Council draft local plan - which has been withdrawn - the site was allocated for hundreds of homes while it has also been earmarked for a dozen traveller pitches in the past.

The developer has submitted an environmental impact assessment ahead of drawing up a full planning application.

Kerry Smith, Independent councillor responsible for the Nethermayne ward, added: “In an ideal world, it would stay green, but it is going to get developed eventually.

“If I had a magic wand, it won’t happen, but I am realistic, it will get developed, and so we want the best outcome.

“When residents know there is a possibility for traveller’s pitches to be put there, this new housing development could be the best of a bad situation as the reality is it will get built on.”

Plans would also see up to “1,000sqm of commercial floorspace and a community hub” with “new access and multi-functional green infrastructure”.

David Kavanagh, managing director of EA Strategic Land, said: “We recently submitted a request for a scoping opinion as the first stage of our preparations to make a planning application to deliver much-needed housing and associated community infrastructure at land off London Road in Vange.

“The site was allocated for more than 600 homes in Basildon Borough Council’s previous draft Local Plan before that was withdrawn.

“We believe this proposal continues to be an exceptional opportunity to create a sustainable and high-quality new community.

“The initial plans include up to 650 new homes including affordable housing, up to 1,000sqm of commercial space, opening up green areas to provide new paths and walkways, and new infrastructure including access roads off London Road and Brickfield Road.

“These plans will make a positive contribution to local housing need and the community.”