A picturesque setting for new homes

Barratt has received planning consent to build 160 new homes in a wonderfully picturesque setting in Bocking village, just outside the market town of Braintree. Work has already begun to create the homes at ‘Bocking Mill’, which will comprise a variety of homes ranging in size from two-bedroom apartments and terraced houses up to substantial six-bedroom detached houses.

Adam Lawrence, regional chairman of Barratt, comments: “It’s rare to secure such a superb site. The homes will be located on high ground in an area rich in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Although the setting is idyllic, Bocking village is within easy reach of Chelmsford and Colchester and just an hour from London by train. I have no doubt that the combination of its fantastic rural setting coupled with its easy commuter links will have great appeal for many homebuyers.”

A silk mill opened by the Courtauld family in the early 19th century once occupied the 11-acre site. Although the mill was demolished many years ago, another magnificent historic building – a Grade I Listed 16th century church – is located opposite the development. To add to this historic setting, the new homes will be set on either side of the River Plant, which flows through the heart of the development.

The homes, designed in traditional Essex style to blend into the countryside, have superb contemporary interiors with clean lines and intelligent design that makes the best use of light and space. With large open-plan living areas, sleek fully fitted kitchens, generously sized bedrooms and classy bathrooms, the specification of the homes is very high. All the homes will have allocated parking and some of the larger houses will have their own garage.

Braintree, a small lively town with excellent facilities, is just a short drive away. The pedestrian shopping area in the town centre has a diverse collection of high street names and independent retailers. There are plenty of open-air coffee shops, bars and restaurants, creating a continental atmosphere. Nearby is Freeport Designer Village, one of the UK’s largest outlet shopping centres, which has over 85 famous name stores, a 12-screen cinema, bowling, go-karting, nightclubs and restaurants.

Families will find plenty of choice for schools with seven primary schools and two secondary schools in the heart of Braintree and many more in the surrounding areas. For those with older children, Braintree sixth-form college is very close to the development.

Braintree is only 10 miles from Chelmsford and 15 miles from Colchester. Braintree station, just a few minutes’ drive from Bocking Mill, provides regular services to London’s Liverpool Street taking around one hour. Stansted airport, with its fast growing schedule of flights to Europe and the US, is 13 miles away along the nearby A120.

Prices of homes at Bocking Mill are expected to start in the region of £199,995 for a two-bedroom apartment. To register interest in Bocking Mill, visit the website: Barratthomes.co.uk.