HTA has been appointed by CHP for community-led regeneration in Chelmsford

12 Jul 2024

Following a detailed public procurement process, Essex-based housing association CHP has appointed HTA Design to deliver a multi-generational community. The new neighbourhood will comprise flexible, zero-carbon homes, interactive new green spaces and social areas, as well as better connections to the adjacent River Can and nearby parks.

The joint initiative by HTA and CHP aims to revitalise the Andrews Place and Rainsford Lane area. The plan involves replacing the existing 69 bungalows built on the two-hectare site in 1949 with a wider variety of new, affordable homes that cater to the specific needs of local residents.

After meeting with a selection panel comprised of CHP customers living in the area, it was clear that HTA’s focus on understanding the residents, surrounding area, and the site itself aligns with the CHP customer-led approach for the site.

HTA also joined CHP at a recent community event, where we had the opportunity to meet more residents in person.  We plan to dedicate further time to getting to know the area, local stakeholders and CHP’s customers before creating detailed plans for the site.

Fiona Hollingsworth, CHP’s Growth and Partnerships Director said: “CHP is always looking at how best we can provide more much-needed local affordable housing. Throughout the tender process HTA showed not only their vast experience but also their commitment to customer engagement and community led development which is vitally important to us. We’re looking forward to working with HTA and our customers as we further invest in the area and the community”.

Paul Maddock, Associate Partner HTA Design said:We’re thrilled to be collaborating with CHP, its customers, and the wider Chelmsford community to realise the regeneration of Andrews Place. Our concept design is centred on creating a healthy, dementia-friendly place that opens onto Admirals Park. In line with our component-led design approach, the plans include a range of flexible dual aspect housing types making the homes easier to construct, readily adaptable to residents’ changing needs and offering sustainable design quality.

We’re looking forward to developing our concept ideas further with the local community to create a truly multi-generational garden neighbourhood, featuring biodiverse playable green spaces, a  reprovision of later living homes designed to HAPPI principles, and 100% affordable housing overall for Chelmsford.”

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