A unique housing development in Colchester considered to be the first of its kind in the country has been celebrated for its innovative approach to sustainable living.
Cannock Mill, in Old Health Road, Colchester was developed into 30 homes, with the members owning their own homes and sharing two acres of land.
The housing development has now won the Healthy Homes and Neighbourhoods award at the Healthy City Design Awards.
The community combines eco-friendly homes with shared spaces and activities, promoting a lifestyle that combats social isolation and supports well-being.
Residents live in private homes but share communal facilities, including a Grade II-listed water mill and millpond at the heart of the development.
The project began more than a decade ago, led by a group of friends, including architect Anne Thorne, who envisioned a healthier way to age while maintaining independence.
Today, 26 households call Cannock Mill home, living in 23 newly built houses and three flats converted from the miller’s house.
“We wanted to stay active but also be somewhere that, if we couldn’t drive, there would be public transport,” Anne said.
“We also wanted to support each other and avoid the isolation that can come with traditional housing.”
The homes were built using Passivhaus principles, with timber frames, recycled materials, and planted roofs to minimize environmental impact.
Energy-efficient ventilation reduces heating needs, and the millpond offers both scenic beauty and mental health benefits, with some residents even swimming regularly.
Residents like Peter Tibber, who moved in with his wife Eve in 2019, say the community has transformed their lives.
“Isolation and loneliness are bad for your health,” Tibber said.
“Here, we have a choice about how much we do with others and how much we do alone.”
The Healthy City Design Awards praised Cannock Mill for its environmental standards and community-driven design.
Judges said the project “stands out for its holistic integration of sustainability, accessibility, and well-being.”
Thorne expressed pride in the award: “This was a dream that took years to achieve, and we’re delighted to see it recognized.”
Cohousing is a growing trend in the UK, with more than 600 people now living in similar communities.
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