The go-ahead has been given for 61 high-quality family homes close to the train station in Purfleet.
As the first phase of the £1 billion regeneration of the town centre, it will create a gateway to the wider masterplan, connecting existing Purfleet with the new development and ensuring the whole community benefits.
The £1bn project is being delivered by Purfleet Centre Regeneration Limited (PCRL), a joint venture between Urban Catalyst and Swan Housing Association.
Phase one, which will consist of a mix of spacious two, three and four-bedroom homes, is close to the railway station, with access to both the town centre and wider community spaces. Up to 30% of the homes will be available to purchase under the Government’s Shared Ownership scheme, which aims to make getting on the housing ladder more affordable. Work on the 61 homes is due to commence in spring/summer 2020.
This phase will also include a children’s play area, orchard walk and reinstate public access to Hollow Woods, and will form part of the 2.36 hectare development which has been designed to enhance the green links to Purfleet’s Conservation Area.
A minimum of 94 parking spaces – equating to 1.5 spaces per household – will also be provided, while much of the existing woodland will be retained so residents can enjoy the green space with the aim of creating a healthier, more active community.
Architecture is also deliberately in keeping with the woodland setting, reflecting the style of homes in the surrounding Conservation Area by making use of timber effect and Flint Gabions.
These new homes form part of the £1 billion planned regeneration of the town centre that will see PCRL, with local partner Thurrock Council, create a vibrant centre with shops, community amenities including a new health centre, improved railways and transport facilities, housing and job opportunities.
PCRL’s ambitious regeneration plans also encompass a state-of-the-art media village and entertainment studios, with the vison for Purfleet, which is already home to the High House Production Park, to become an international creative hub within the Thames Gateway.
Outline planning permission for the £1billion masterplan was granted by Thurrock Council in April last year.
Sir Tim Laurence, Chairman of PCRL, said: “We are excited to commence this project, which will form part of the wider regeneration of Purfleet, creating a vibrant place for people to live, work, learn, socialise and invest, and which is in harmony with its natural surroundings.
“The first phase is an opportunity to demonstrate PCRL’s commitment to realising our ambitious plans and to repaying the trust that the local community have placed in us.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with local residents – who have provided vital local knowledge and support in the development of our masterplan – to create a thriving Purfleet for everyone.”