Planning permission has been given for a new sheltered housing scheme in Lawford.

Tendring District Council (TDC) had submitted plans for the development, on the site of the former Honeycroft sheltered housing in Waldegrave Way.

Last week (Thursday, 28 September) TDC’s Planning Committee gave the green light to the plans – paving the way for construction to start.

The council is creating 13 units on the site for those aged 55 and over, having demolished the previous building in early 2021 as it was no longer fit for purpose. Tenants had moved out of the block in March 2018 – though residents remain in the neighbouring bungalow accommodation.

Rose Builders have been contracted to build the new facility, which will also include a communal building.

Andy Baker, TDC Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing, welcomed the approval from the Planning Committee.

“This £3.25million project will provide sheltered homes for residents, while re-using an existing council asset and developing a largely brownfield site,” Councillor Baker said.

“This development in particular will focus on environmental initiatives being built in by design, such as solar panels, heat pumps, and other carbon reduction measures.”

The project is funded from the council’s housing budget, with the money recouped over 30 years through rental income.

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