Layer-de-la-Haye site with plans for developments sold

The 12.4-acre site in The Folley, in Layer-de-la-Haye, Colchester, has been snapped up after being put on the market for a guide price of £6million, subject to contract. 

Two planning applications for a development of 70 homes had already been approved for the plot by Colchester Council prior to the sale.

One planning application was approved for up to seven market dwellings and eight affordable homes, while the other application was approved for up to 39 market homes and 16 affordable houses.

The proposals show new vehicle access from Greate House Farm Road and The Folley could also be established.

Access: the planned access route onto the site (Image: Google)

Both planning applications caused controversy amongst residents in Colchester and amassed a total of 66 public objections between them.

One member of the public said the approval would mean their “life would be changed forever” and another said “the doctor's surgery and schools are unable to cater for those whom are already housed in the village without additional families”.

The plans look to create a “rural environment” with “extensive landscaping” and public open space for new and existing residents of Layer-de-la-Haye to use.

Offers for the land were made by interested parties putting forward their best bid in a sealed envelope.

A spokesman for estate agents Nicholas Percival said: “The village has the amenities of a doctor's surgery, public houses; The Layer Fox and Donkey and Buskins, a village store, primary school, St John's Baptist Parish Church and a Village Hall.

“The site can be accessed from either Greate House Farm Road, off Malting Green Road, or directly from the Folley.

“The indicative layout plan illustrates the site will accommodate 45 dwellings from Greate House Farm Road and the remaining 25 from The Folley.

“The Section 106 Agreement provides provision for 24 affordable housing dwellings and contributions amounting to circa £565,000.”