Neighbours from a town in Essex are furious about plans to build 2,000 flat-pack eco-homes. Building firm Hemspan wants to erect the new homes in Rochford, near Southend-on-Sea, but some residents object to the proposals, concerned about a lack of infrastructure to accommodate the anticipated surge in the local population.
Hemspan’s proposal for “climate positive” homes covers a 130-hectare site northeast of Rochford. The company maintains the buildings store more planet-warming carbon than they emit during construction and produce “near-zero” CO2 when built.
The company says the development would set a benchmark for housing which combats climate change, with hemp mixed with timber used as building materials.
Under the plans, up to 40% of the homes would be “affordable” for rent or shared ownership. The 2,000 “sustainable homes” would also feature solar panels, heat pumps and greywater recycling facilities.
Hemspan says its Rochford Park scheme will boost the local economy and generate jobs in the region.
Matt Belcher, founder of the Cambridge-based company, told the Telegraph the plans naturally align with the Labour Government’s drive to free low quality Green Belt land for development and mandatory housing targets.
Councils in Essex have been set a target to build 14,088 homes per year by Labour, representing a 37% increase on the previous target.
Local resident Lee Ellis has launched a campaign against Rochford Park. He claimed to the news outlet that “everyone” views the proposals as a “direct threat” to their way of life.
He told the publication: “We simply don’t have the infrastrucure for it. How would this area – the roads and even the sewage system – cope with an additional 2,000 homes? It’s unthinkable.”
Ashingdon local, Judy Hathaway, said GP surgeries are full and dentists can’t take on any more NHS patients. She claimed the scheme would “obliterate” the Green Belt.
Hemspan insists a “full range” of infrastructure is “planned”. This includes schools, GP, retail, leisure and sports facilities.
The company also maintains the development will increase biodiversity. However, the Government’s new Planning Bill means developers would not be required to restore nature in the places where it has been lost, but can do so elsewhere.
Hemspan has been approached for comment.