Plans approved for up to 245 homes on former St Peter's College site in Chelmsford
Plans to redevelop the former St Peter's College site in Chelmsford have been given the go-ahead, paving the way for up to 185 new homes and 60 independent-living properties for older residents.
Chelmsford City Council's Planning Committee unanimously approved the proposals on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, granting outline planning permission for the redevelopment of the former school grounds at Fox Crescent.
The development is being brought forward by Essex Housing, Essex County Council's in-house development team, following an extensive consultation process.
As well as housing, the scheme will provide new public green spaces, children's play areas, community facilities and flexible workspace.
Up to 185 new homes planned
The proposals include up to 185 residential properties, with a mixture of house types and sizes intended to meet different housing needs.
Up to 35% of the 185 residential homes will be affordable, according to Chelmsford City Council.
The development will also provide up to 60 independent-living homes for older people who wish to maintain their independence while having additional support available when needed.
At least half of these independent-living properties will be designed to meet accessible and adaptable housing standards.
Features will include step-free access, wider doorways and corridors, accessible bathrooms and layouts designed to accommodate wheelchair users.
The scheme could therefore provide up to 245 homes across the two residential elements.
New parks and green spaces
More than three hectares of the site will be used to provide green spaces, wildlife habitats and recreational areas.
A new linear park will run through the development, connecting Fox Crescent, Highfield Road and Hobart Close.
Tree-lined pathways and green corridors will link different parts of the neighbourhood, with plans also including:
- A wildflower meadow.
- Improvements to an existing pond.
- Protection of a mature oak tree.
- New hedgerows and wildlife habitats.
- A community park with picnic seating.
- A children's play area.
The plans are intended to create an attractive residential neighbourhood while improving access to outdoor spaces for the wider community.
Changes to Fox Crescent parking and access
Vehicle access to the development will be provided from Fox Crescent through two new priority junctions.
The junction locations have been designed to protect an existing mature willow tree while maintaining suitable visibility for motorists.
The new road layout will require changes to on-street parking arrangements in Fox Crescent.
However, replacement parking spaces are planned in bays at the front of the development.
The council says it is proposed that this work will take place at an early stage of construction to minimise disruption to existing residents.
Two special schools already operating on the site
Parts of the former St Peter's College grounds have already been redeveloped to accommodate two special schools.
Sir Geoff Hurst Academy and The Hawthorns School have both welcomed their first pupils.
The wider former school site has been identified as a Strategic Growth Site in Chelmsford's Local Plan, which sets out the council's approach to future housing and development.
The newly approved residential scheme forms another stage in the transformation of the former educational site.
Council welcomes housing approval
Councillor Richard Lee, Chelmsford City Council's Cabinet Member for Planning and Place-Shaping, welcomed the range of housing proposed.
He said the development would provide different types of homes for people at various stages of their lives, giving residents more opportunities to remain within their local community as their circumstances change.
The council says the development will benefit from its proximity to existing shops, schools, sports facilities, public transport and other amenities in north-west Chelmsford.
When will construction begin?
Although the proposals have received outline planning approval, a construction start date has not yet been confirmed.
Outline permission establishes the principle of the development, but further details and approvals may be required before building work can begin.
Essex Housing has confirmed that the next steps towards delivering the new homes will now be explored.
City Hub will continue to follow the project as further details emerge about construction, housing availability and the development timetable.