Land South of Stansted Mountfitchet and North of Birchanger

Environmental considerations

Sustainable design and travel

Creating a place that has strong sustainable credentials is important to us; all homes will be fossil fuel free and will meet the latest Building Regulations that require enhancement over earlier homes. Solar panels and the latest heating methods will be carefully integrated into the designs, with the orientation and glazing of each home optimised to maximise natural daylight while helping to regulate indoor temperatures throughout the seasons. Additionally, all homes will also have EV charging points.

Sustainable methods of car-free travel will be promoted through new and enhanced walking and cycling routes that will connect with existing infrastructure. Feedback to our initial proposals have shown that improved cycle routes are a much-wanted addition to the village. This not only reduces the carbon footprint and a reliance on private vehicles, but it also encourages a healthier lifestyle among residents.

A landscape-led approach

Enhancing public spaces for the wildlife to thrive

A key aspect of this development is its landscape-led approach, to ensure the development respects the unique character of the surrounding built-up area. Our approach also seeks to utilise existing valued landscape features and characters, including existing woodlands, whilst enhancing the wildlife habitat and existing landscape.

The design, brought forward by FeildenCleggBradley Studios, will respect the local landscape character that surrounds Stansted Mountfitchet and Birchanger. This will ensure that the development integrates seamlessly with the existing village fabric and will introduce new high-quality placemaking principles under its exemplary design approach.

City & Country are now also proposing an enhancement of the agricultural landscape with the replanning of Tot Grove, the replacement of lost hedgerows and the introduction of new east west paths as well as a new parallel path to Tot Lane. All of which will help restore the traditional landscape of the area and greatly enhance the footpath network to the local primary and secondary schools. These improved linkages will retain and enhance the traditional rural character whilst encouraging a healthy lifestyle and reducing the need for car journeys.

Landscape proposals

Potential benefits of the proposed landscaping strategy

Retain and enhance the existing landscape where possible, including vegetation and green spaces.
Introduce significant new public open green spaces for new and existing residents to enjoy on each proposed site.
Provision for new and enhanced pedestrian and cycle routes to promote walkable neighbourhoods and create a seamless integration with the village setting and surrounding green corridor.
Introduce new opportunities for community-led gardens and open space, as well as the potential for new community village greens, shops and other facilities.
All landscape proposals to contribute towards at least a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
Built to the latest Future Homes Standard, all homes will be fossil fuel-free and equipped with modern insulation, solar panels, modern heating systems and electric vehicle charging points as standard.