IMPROVEMENTS to bicycle and walking routes are “vital” ahead of 80 homes being built in Great Horkesley, a councillor has claimed.
David Wilson Homes has been granted outline planning permission to build 80 homes on land east of Nayland Road, as well as a Scout and Girl Guiding building for the community.
And, under newly-submitted plans, this could raise to 100 homes being built if Colchester Council approves the application.
The current proposal will also see land allocated for allotments and crossing points installed on the A143, as well as various associated parking and landscaping.
Essex county councillor Lewis Barber now says walking and cycling infrastructure must be improved in order to cope with the added demand more villagers will bring.
Read more: Shaken-up supermarket workers receive support after 'distressing incident'
He said: “It is vital we improve cycle and walking infrastructure between Great Horkesley and Chesterwell.
“This is a must to increase choice of travel and can be achieved without impact the existing road network.”
Mr Barber explained how the significance for improvements is heightened by the announcement a new secondary school plans to open its doors in the Chesterwell estate in September next year.
Trinity School is set to host 900 pupils and was originally scheduled to be open in 2019. Last year it suffered further setbacks when construction firm Laing O’Rourke pulled out of the project.
Mr Barber added: “This is particularly important ahead of the much-delayed opening of the permanent Trinity School site, which will eventually see many families make the journey from the village to Chesterwell.
“I want to ensure they have safe choices in how they make that journey with high-quality infrastructure in line with national guidelines.
“If the development is to go ahead along the A134, we must see Essex County Council secure these improvements to our local, rural infrastructure.”
Trinity School has already been granted outline permission as part of a wider application by Mersea Homes in Chesterwell, north Colchester.
These ambitious plans also include the development of 2,400 new homes, transport infrastructure and buildings for sport, leisure and business.
We're offering a free one month trial to the Gazette website this month. For all the latest Colchester and north Essex news and fascinating features subscribe today. To find out more click here.
Share