Latimer, part of Clarion Housing Group, has applied for planning permission to build a new garden community on the border of Tendring and Colchester in north Essex, England.
The proposal for Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community includes the construction of 7,750 new homes, with at least 30% allocated as affordable housing options, such as social rent, affordable rent and shared ownership.
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The development also plans to provide four primary schools and one secondary school across three neighbourhoods.
The submitted plans detail the inclusion of employment land expected to generate more than 6,000 full-time jobs.
The site will feature flexible workspaces to support local businesses and a network of mobility hubs and public transport links connecting the area to Colchester and surrounding towns.
Latimer’s design outlines a central civic area featuring community venues and a modern Guildhall.
More than half of the planned development will remain open space, including a 60ha country park, restored woodlands, existing hedgerow-lined lanes spanning over 30km, and more than 10ha set aside for local food growing through orchards and allotments.
The masterplan for Tendring Colchester Borders Garden Community aims to maintain established ecological networks and preserve historic field boundaries.
Latimer states that infrastructure delivery will occur in phases aligned with housing and community needs.
Initial phases would include 837 homes, creation of the first parkland areas, business spaces for small enterprises, a transport hub and new public spaces such as Gateway Place with a market square.
The planning application follows engagement with local residents, organisations and young people in the area through exhibitions and outreach events.
The company assembled a project team including architects and sustainability advisers to address climate concerns by designing walkable neighbourhoods focused on active travel and low-carbon use.
The garden community proposal sets out provisions for the timely delivery of essential infrastructure while allocating around 25ha specifically for employment purposes.
The plan emphasises walkability, reduced traffic levels, and measures supporting both environmental resilience and economic opportunity.
Clarion Housing Group chief development officer Richard Cook said: “This submission marks a major step forward in delivering a flagship new Garden Community for Tendring and Colchester, and a landmark moment for Clarion.
“We would like to acknowledge and thank the broad range of project partners that have helped us get to this important milestone, including our Local Authority partners, Homes England, MHCLG and our design team.”
