News Resolution to grant planning consent for £220 million development Viridis secured

Resolution to grant planning consent for £220 million development Viridis secured

News, Press Releases

June 20, 2024

PRP and Weston Homes have gained a resolution to grant outline planning consent from Colchester City Council for a new £220 million (GDV) residential development, Viridis, in Stanway, Colchester providing up to 600 new homes. The new scheme will feature a mix of 420 private units and 180 affordable units, complete with large areas of high-quality public realm and landscaping, including ponds, play areas and extensive pedestrian and cycle routes throughout. 

Viridis will offer a variety of housing options: two, three and four-bedroom houses for private ownership, and one and two-bedroom apartments and two, three and four-bedroom houses as affordable housing. The project, designed by PRP Architects, will create a vibrant community with beautifully designed homes surrounded by nature and will fulfil part of a government requirement for Colchester City Council to build 920 homes annually.

All the homes will feature Weston Homes’ premium, fully inclusive specification, high ceilings, large windows, and open-plan layouts to maximise natural light. The development will also offer fibreoptic superfast broadband, ensuring residents stay connected. Additionally, there will be a wide choice of on-trend finishes for personalising the interiors, which are all included within the price. The scheme is also designed to provide an abundance of green open space, with an emphasis on sustainability and providing homes with numerous eco-friendly features.

Viridis is ideally located just a 4-minute drive from Marks Tey Station, which provides direct train links to London Liverpool Street in under an hour. This prime location makes it perfect for commuters.

Bob Weston, Chairman and Managing Director of Weston Homes says: “Weston Homes is delighted by the resolution to grant outline planning consent for Viridis, which underlines our dedication to developing affordable, well-connected homes perfect for modern living. This new development in Stanway, Colchester is part of our ongoing major growth and expansion. We are looking forward to beginning the delivery of this fantastic new community for the people of Essex.”

Carolina Ipes, Associate of Urban Design and Masterplanning at PRP, says: “We are creating at Viridis more than just homes; we are designing a lifestyle that harmoniously combines quality, affordability and nature. Our vision is to offer residents the opportunity to access green, open spaces right from their doorstep. This development ensures that every resident, regardless of their housing choice, can enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the natural surroundings. We have meticulously planned Viridis with sustainability and walkable neighbourhood principles at its core. Our design encourages walking and cycling and reduces reliance on cars, thus fostering a healthier, more connected community.”

Spyros Katsaros Director of Urban Design and Masterplanning at PRP adds: "We at PRP, the masterplanners, are extremely happy with the resolution to grant outline planning consent for Viridis. It has been an extremly rewarding experience working collaboratively with Weston Homes, the Council, and other stakeholders to achieve this shared vision. Our placemaking approach caters to people of all ages, ensuring that Viridis is a vibrant, inclusive neighbourhood. From safe play areas for children to peaceful retreats for older residents, we are committed to creating spaces where everyone can thrive. This commitment to quality, accessibility, and sustainability underscores our belief that everyone deserves to live in a home where they can thrive and connect with nature every day."