MasterplanningChigwell Retirement Village

Nestled on a hillside within the Roding Valley, our masterplan for a new retirement community provides a model for peri-urban living.

Our third development for Retirement Villages Group exploits the beguiling topography of the Roding Valley to create 144 new homes set within the rolling hills of south Essex. The project reflects a deep commitment to community engagement and thoughtful design, developed in close collaboration with Epping Forest Council, its Quality Review Panel, and the local community.

The layout of the development encourages social interaction and cohesion, with buildings arranged along a central avenue that connects every home dwelling to communal facilities and the landscape that flows through the site. By placing parking at the edge, an intimate environment is created that promotes chance encounters among residents, enhancing social bonds and reducing reliance on cars.

The landscape strategy offers a diverse range of external spaces, balancing curated environments at the heart of the community with wilder areas at the edges. Apartments are designed in groups of up to five, promoting social interaction and encouraging the appropriation of shared spaces.


20% biodiversity net gain

144 new homes on former green belt site

Targeting net zero carbon in operation


"These high aspirations are visible in aspects of the landscape design, contextual studies, response to the local area and development of the architectural character."

Epping Forest Quality Review Panel, July 2023

Taking inspiration from local character, our design respects the settlement patterns and architectural forms characteristic of Essex villages. Highly efficient villa blocks are strategically placed to respond to the sloping site, allowing the surrounding landscape to permeate the development, providing every resident with easy access to nature.

The new homes are designed from first principles to support residents’ lifestyles, but also serve as a new social asset for the wider area. Despite the existing site being undeveloped, we have achieved 20% biodiversity net gain, and prioritised environmental sustainability while simultaneously fostering a vibrant, active community.

Every home is generous in natural light, space and outlook; and benefits from excellent connections to the wider landscape whilst being designed to adapt to the diverse and evolving needs of residents.

The massing, form and composition of the buildings stepping down the valley has been thoughtfully developed around key views and takes inspiration from the ‘external image’ of many Essex villages as celebrated in the Essex Design Guide.


Client
Retirement Villages Group

Status
Planning Submitted

Location
Chigwell, Epping Forest

Project Team
Alan Beveridge
Elis Bedwyr
Katie Hackett
Quincy Haynes
Samuel Letchford
Tom King
Tim Riley

CGI
Pillar

Landscape
Camlins

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