Drainage and sustainability

Drainage

The proposed development will include a comprehensive Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) strategy that focuses on using natural processes and materials to intercept, guide, filter and absorb surface water from the proposed development. 

These wet features will be incorporated as a key part of the final landscape design and sensitively integrated into public spaces with native planting. The natural pattern of landform is the guiding principle for locating the majority of SuDS features, with a chain of SuDS elements forming the sensitive landscape transition between the Country Park and the housing area. 

All proposed housing will be located outside of the flood zone, and the development will be designed to mitigate flood risk. 

 
 

Sustainability 

Hopkins Homes is proud of its green credentials and demands that its homes are energy efficient and constructed to a high standard of sustainability. 

Further details of all sustainable design measures for the development will be set out at detailed design stage, however, key measures relating to environmental performance and sustainability have been identified for the proposed development at this stage and including the following: 

  • Energy Efficiency: All homes will feature Air Source Heat Pumps, robust insulation, controlled ventilation, and airtight design. Home User Guides will support long-term energy and carbon reduction. 

  • Water Conservation: A Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) integrated with natural features will mitigate flood risks. 

  • Sustainable Materials: Construction will prioritise "A" rated materials from the Green Guide, reducing environmental impact over the materials’ lifecycle. 

  • Waste Recycling: The development will support local recycling standards, with guides provided for sustainable living. 

  • Tree Planting: At least three trees will be planted per dwelling in line with Chelmsford’s standards. 

  • Health and Well-being: Homes will feature natural daylighting, ventilation, and green spaces to enhance residents' quality of life and promote exercise. 

  • Construction Management: Environmentally responsible site management will focus on reducing water and energy use, controlling air pollution, recycling over 80% of timber, and minimizing construction waste through a detailed management plan. 

  • Ecological Enhancement: A landscape strategy will include native plantings, habitat creation, and biodiversity management to improve the site’s ecological value.