Manor Street is a high-quality development consisting 35 homes for social rent and shared ownership in Braintree, Essex. 12 of these spacious apartments are for social rent (six one-bedroom and six two-bedroom) and 23 for shared ownership (seven one-bedroom, 14 two-bedroom, and two three-bedroom). This scheme aims to help meet the high level of housing need in the East of England.

calfordseaden provided Clerk of Works services to this scheme which has transformed the area, bringing new life to the town centre while helping to meet the district’s need for affordable homes.

In addition to Eastlight, Braintree District Council worked with several stakeholders before deciding on the best use of the land. This includes residents, local businesses, the local NHS Trust, Essex County Council and community groups.

Once the desired objectives were confirmed, the council engaged with partners to design a mixed-use development that would deliver various new buildings and uses, while being acceptable in planning terms.

The NHS collaborated to create a Livewell hub, designed and equipped with a variety of health and wellbeing services to meet the needs of the current community and future generations.

By providing much needed affordable homes, it has brought new residents into Braintree, giving nearby businesses and the local economy a welcome boost, as retailers, hospitality, leisure and other service providers benefit from the resulting increased trade.

The scheme is also an excellent example of how strong partnership working has not only successfully delivered the various stakeholders’ requirements, but also increased the area’s supply of genuinely affordable homes on a greater scale than originally envisaged.