Billericay Hill Group work on 179 green belt homes underway

Developer, the Hill Group, has been spotted on the site and preparation work is ongoing before new homes are constructed on land off Kennel Lane, Billericay. 

Despite Basildon Council initially rejecting the plans due to fears over the loss of open space, the planning inspectorate approved the plan for 179 homes on appeal back in 2022.  

Approved - 179 homes on the land on Kennel Lane, Billericay (Image: Basildon Planning)

It comes as the council launches a consultation with residents over its proposed draft 27,000-home local plan – including up to 4,170 homes in Billericay.

Billericay councillor, Phil Turner, is against the approved plans on the green belt land and fears this is only the beginning of large developments coming to the area.

He said: “Residents have made it clear that this development is unwanted.

“There are other sites across the borough that are better placed to take this number of housing.

“It is a sad day and on top of this Labour have signalled their intention to concrete over Billericay’s green fields.

“There is no justification for this.

“We have made it clear that on returning to administration we will refresh the local plan to amend this attack on our green belt and our residents’ way of life.”

Despite major concerns over the approved plans, the Hill Group has insisted the homes are “much-needed”.

Andy Hill, chief executive of the Hill Group, said: “We are delighted that work is now underway in Billericay to deliver this new community of homes, which has been shaped by the needs and aspirations of local people.

“We were able to secure swift planning approval, and we are excited to start delivering much-needed homes to the area.

“The development brings together all the essential elements for building a successful community – high-quality homes, green open spaces, strong transport links, and eco-friendly design.”