Story posted: 15/08/2024
Construction has started on site at Sempra Homes’ latest development at Markhams Chase to provide much-needed shared ownership homes in Basildon.
Sempra Homes, the subsidiary company of Basildon Council, are delivering this development of three, contemporary two-bedroom houses which will be available as part of Sempra’s Shared Ownership affordable housing programme, which gives priority to veterans, with access also to Basildon Borough residents and key workers who will be able to purchase these homes to take their first steps on the housing ladder.
The development is being delivered through Sempra’s Investment Partnership with Homes England with additional funding from One Public Estate of £41,000.00 under the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund (BLRF) programme.
Melanie Keys, Services Manager at Sempra Homes comments, “We are pleased to see the construction commence at this development in Basildon. As well as providing these much-needed new affordable homes we are also contributing £10,000 towards Find Your Active Basildon Partnership, aimed at enhancing community health through wellbeing and physical activities aligned with the Council’s objectives.
“In recent years the site has suffered from fly tipping, anti-social behaviour and unlicensed fast-food sales. The development of this land will see the entire site used for residential purposes with private front and rear gardens and parking courts to provide much needed housing for the borough.”
The homes at Markhams Chase will be built to a high specification featuring integrated energy efficient appliances to the kitchen. Using a Fabric First Approach, they are designed to be energy efficient as well as meet National Space standards. Sempra Homes are also collaborating with the Essex Police Secure by Design officers to achieve gold accreditation, ensuring a safe living environment.
Sustainability features prominently in the development, with each home including an electric vehicle charging point and air source heating system. Within the development all mature trees will be retained alongside the creation of a wild meadow and pollinator planting to support local wildlife.
A new sheltered bus stop with real time information boards will also be provided as part of the works on Markhams Close to enhance resident facilities for local transport infrastructure.
The development was designed by Calford Seadon Architects and Building Associates are appointed to construct the new development, with PSW acting as Sempra’s Employers Agents.
