Transport improvements planned as part of 800-home development in Chelmsford

Significant highway improvements have been approved to enhance infrastructure around Moulsham Hall Estates' strategic development site in Great Leighs, Chelmsford. The improvements will support both the recently approved 800-home residential scheme and Moulsham Hall Estates' retained development parcels, which include a new neighbourhood centre, primary school, nursery and residential care facility.

The infrastructure scheme, detailed in an outline planning application to Chelmsford City Council, comprises a new spine road and strategic access junction. Central to the improvements is a new roundabout at Moulsham Hall Lane's junction with the A131, incorporating dedicated provisions for cyclists, pedestrians and equestrians.

Moulsham Hall Estates will deliver key community facilities including a new primary school, children's nursery, and an 80-bed residential care home. The neighbourhood centre, featuring commercial and community facilities, remains under Moulsham Hall Estates' ownership and will serve as the heart of the new community. The site's strategic location south of Chelmsford City Racecourse enhances its connectivity to existing infrastructure.

Transportation planning assessments indicate the development will generate approximately 1,078 peak AM and 863 peak PM two-way trips. To support sustainable transport objectives, the scheme includes a structural spine road designed to accommodate bus services, with financial contributions secured through Section 106 agreements to support public transport provision.

This development forms a key component of the Strategic Growth Site Allocation for Great Leighs, as outlined in the adopted Chelmsford Local Plan (May 2020). The Masterplan for the site received approval from Chelmsford City Council in March 2023, establishing a unified vision for this significant expansion of Great Leighs.

The infrastructure improvements demonstrate Moulsham Hall Estates' ongoing commitment to creating sustainable communities through strategic investment in both transport infrastructure and community facilities.