The Project
Barcroft has identified an opportunity to regenerate a 5.16-acre former garden nursery site on a main arterial route through Hawkwell.
The proposed mixed-use development will comprise an 80-bed, state-of-the-art purpose-built care home alongside 38 new residential dwellings. The scheme provides an opportunity to bring a redundant site back into productive use while making a significant contribution towards identified local needs for both additional care accommodation and new housing.
The site is located within the Green Belt but has been identified as Grey Belt land, presenting an opportunity to deliver sustainable development on previously developed and underutilised land in an established location.
The proposed development is currently progressing through the pre-planning and design stages, with a planning application anticipated in Q1 2027.
The project is being brought forward through Mercroft, a joint venture development partnership
The Location
The site is situated in Hawkwell, an established and highly desirable residential area within Rochford District, benefiting from a strong local community and attractive setting. Hawkwell forms part of the wider Hockley and Hawkwell settlement, which offers a wide range of shops, schools, healthcare, leisure and community facilities, alongside excellent connectivity to Southend and the surrounding area. Nearby Hockley railway station provides regular services to Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street, whilst the area also benefits from its proximity to significant areas of open countryside and natural landscape, including Hockley Woods. The combination of established residential neighbourhoods, extensive local facilities, green open spaces and convenient transport connections makes Hawkwell an attractive and aspirational location in which to live.
Barcroft's Role
Barcroft identified the opportunity to regenerate the former nursery site and has exchanged contracts with the landowner to bring the development forward through the Mercroft joint venture.
The project demonstrates Barcroft’s ability to identify opportunities on challenging land and develop a comprehensive response to local needs. The proposed scheme will combine high-quality care accommodation with new housing, making efficient use of Grey Belt land while helping to address the significant housing and care requirements identified within the local area.
The scheme is currently being developed with a planning submission anticipated in Q1 2027.
