Major plans to build 1,300 homes at Dollymans Farm, on green belt land between Rayleigh and Wickford, have been revealed by developer Bloor Homes.
The large-scale proposal covers land east of Wickford’s Shotgate area and west of the A130, close to the Fairglen interchange with the A127 — one of south Essex’s busiest road junctions. If approved, the scheme would see the creation of a brand-new neighbourhood, including homes, a local centre, a primary school and green spaces.
The plans, which are still in the masterplanning stage, have already prompted concern due to the scale of development on designated green belt land. This area currently serves as a buffer between existing towns and provides vital open space.
Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, Mark Francois, has spoken out firmly against the proposal, calling it “completely unsustainable”.
He said: “I campaigned against inappropriate development on the green belt during the General Election, and I stand by that. This site is not suitable for a development of this size, and I will be urging Rochford District Council and Basildon Council to reject these plans.”
However, Bloor Homes insists the proposed development would help meet housing needs in both Rochford and Basildon districts. The company says the scheme will include a mix of housing options, aimed at first-time buyers, families, and downsizers, to help local people remain in the communities they know.
In a statement, the developer said:
“We understand the challenge of finding a suitable home, whether you’re a young family or someone looking to downsize. This development will offer a variety of housing options, giving residents the opportunity to stay in the community they love. It will also seek to address the local housing shortage in a highly sustainable location.”
The vision for the site includes not just homes, but infrastructure and community assets as well. Bloor Homes plans to provide health and educational facilities, as well as “attractive green spaces and an extensive network of cycleways and footpaths, all set within a strong landscape framework.”
Roughly half of the site will be preserved as green space. Plans include sports pitches, children’s play areas, and areas for quiet recreation like dog-walking and nature trails. The developer also claims the layout will encourage biodiversity, with the potential to boost local wildlife habitats and reduce flood risks through improved surface water management.
Access and traffic impact are likely to be key sticking points
The primary access to the site is expected to be via an upgraded Doublegate Lane junction, while a secondary access to the west would support bus services and connect the new development to nearby employment areas. Bloor Homes says it is working with Essex County Council Highways Officers to assess the impact on key routes, including The Carpenters Arms junction and the Fairglen Interchange.
A spokesperson added:
“We will be working closely with Officers at Rochford District Council to ensure that our proposals are tailored to provide the right mix of homes, local amenities and facilities that are required in the area along with infrastructure and highway improvements.”
While no formal planning application has been submitted yet, the scale and location of the development are expected to generate significant public interest and scrutiny in the weeks ahead.
I think that Wickford doesn’t need any more homes but there is more empty space for new homes including at Mersea Crescent and Tresco Way at the Wick estate. And new flats already going up at the Broadway opposite to Texaco petrol station in Wickford.