We’re excited to share our vision for a new neighbourhood in Stansted, Essex, where we plan to create around 400 new homes in partnership with award-winning architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCB Studios).
Following the acquisition of 177 acres of land to the south of Stansted in 2024, this project represents a unique opportunity to deliver thoughtfully designed new homes alongside a wider package of benefits for the local community.
A place rooted in its surroundings
Our early discussions with the Planning Inspectorate identified the potential for new homes as well as areas for the expansion of local primary and secondary schools. The site also offers the chance to restore natural landscapes, enhance biodiversity and improve walking and cycling connections to nearby facilities and the railway station.
We’ve chosen to work with Stirling Prize-winning architects FCB Studios for their expertise in creating places that feel authentic and respectful of their setting. Stansted and the surrounding towns and villages, from the historic market town of Saffron Walden to the picturesque villages of Thaxted and Finchingfield, provide a rich palette of local materials, textures and cultural inspiration. We also want to draw from the creativity of artists such as Edward Bawden, who captured the spirit of the Essex countryside through his work.
Design with community at its heart
For us, this project is about more than just homes – it’s about creating a place with character and a strong sense of belonging. As our Design & Planning Director Simon Vernon-Harcourt explains:
“Having been brought up in this part of Essex and still living in Uttlesford, we wanted to employ an architect who really understands its magic and can create a scheme with warmth that reflects the culture, street patterns and materials of the area. We also want to enhance the landscape by putting back lost woodland and field boundaries and improving transport links to really encourage cycling and walking to the local school and facilities.”
FCB Studios share this vision. Marcus Rothnie, Partner at FCB Studios, says:“This is a rare opportunity to shape a new neighbourhood that is deeply rooted in its landscape and local identity. At a time of increasing pressure to deliver more housing, our focus is on ensuring a quality-led response – one that balances the urgent need for new homes with a commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and a strong sense of place.”
What’s next?
Over the coming months, we’ll be carrying out further public consultation to share our proposals and hear feedback from the local community before submitting a planning application in the early Autumn.
We’re looking forward to working with residents, stakeholders, and our partners at FCB Studios to create a place that feels distinctly of Essex – a community that balances the need for new homes with the care and respect the landscape deserves.