National housebuilder Bellway has revealed ambitious plans for a new community of up to 3,000 homes on land to the north of Southend-on-Sea.

The project is designed to act as a catalyst for long-term growth, potentially forming a key part of a wider 10,000-home strategic allocation identified in the Southend and Rochford draft Local Plans.

The vision centers on two “interconnected villages” that prioritise infrastructure alongside housing. Bellway estimates the development would generate approximately £18.75 million in infrastructure funding and support over 10,000 jobs during and after construction.

The proposed development aims to be self-sustaining, with Bellway exploring the delivery of:

• Education & Health: New schools and dedicated healthcare facilities.
• Economy: A local centre featuring retail units and modern workspaces.
• Environment: Nature-led green spaces designed to exceed the government’s 10% Biodiversity Net Gain target.
• Connectivity: Significant upgrades to highways and public transport links to integrate the villages with the existing city.

Bellway Strategic Land has formally submitted a request for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Scoping Opinion to both Southend-on-Sea City Council and Rochford District Council. This submission marks the first technical step in the planning process, providing a framework for how the environmental effects of the 3,000-home community will be managed.

Jamie MacArthur, Regional Planning Director for Bellway, emphasised the urgency of the project: “Southend urgently needs new homes to meet local demand, improve affordability and give people the opportunity to remain in the communities where they grew up. These proposals would deliver a wide range of both affordable and market housing for people at all stages of life.”

The announcement comes as Southend faces mounting housing pressures, with over 1,600 households on waiting lists and 400 families currently in temporary accommodation. The new community is expected to be a major contributor toward the city’s target of delivering 24,000 homes by 2040.

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