Plans to replace Essex business park with new shops and 77 new homes
An Essex business park could be transformed into 77 flats with shop space, if plans are agreed by the council. Govey Homes is currently in discussions with Rochford Council regarding its proposals for development at The Foundry Business Park, off Station Approach, in Hockley.
The developer, which bought the site in 2022, is proposing to convert and extend some of the existing buildings as well as construct a new building for some of the homes. Under the plans, Kilnfield House would be converted and extended to make 14 apartments, with seven one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom homes.
If agreed, a second building which has never been occupied would be converted into 13 apartments with three one-bedroom, seven two-bedroom and three three-bedroom homes. It is envisaged that some affordable housing would be located in this block. Then building c is a new building to the west of the site accommodating commercial units at ground and mezzanine level with 50 apartments above, with 12 one bedroom, 32 two bedroom and six three bedroom flats.
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There are a number of businesses currently at the site including; Active Scale Models, Holt Motor Services, and Hockley Motor Services. The plans say the developer will be working with these businesses to identify where appropriate alternative accommodation can be provided on-site and where it cannot, to find them appropriate new premises in the local area.
A consultation website for the plans says: “Building C would provide over 1,900 sq metres of commercial floor space, offering an improvement of employment space operating on site. It is envisaged that 30 per cent of this space will be allocated to operators that are already located on site with over 1,300 sq metres available for new commercial operators and community group use.
“The proposed scheme seeks to support the provision of new employment spaces, the retention of jobs and to provide apartments aimed at those aiming to get onto the housing ladder in Hockley. Overall, the scheme seeks to provide: a very high-quality design, environmental enhancements, increased greenery and trees, construction jobs, development close to public transport infrastructure, relieving pressure to deliver development on green field sites, a mix of housing types including some affordable homes, planning contributions towards local infrastructure and increased number of people spending on local goods and services.”