#Chelmsford: Locals to weigh in redevelopment of former St Peter’s site

The college site, which closed in 2011, has been empty for a number of years and Essex County Council, which owns the land, is working alongside Chelmsford City Council to develop plans that would see two new special schools, new open spaces and housing created.

The City Council has produced planning guidelines, and the County Council have now produced three layout plan options, with residents invited to give their views via a newly created website – stpetersfuture.co.uk.

Cllr John Spence CBE, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing at Essex County Council, said: “Having chaired St Peters College governors in the past, I welcome the creation of plans for this site. It provides a rich opportunity to create housing and other facilities in ways which both enliven the community and support the growth of Chelmsford.

“It is critical that we hear the views of as many residents as possible.”

Cllr Neil Gulliver, cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development at Chelmsford City Council, added: “I am pleased to report consultation on the future of the St Peter’s College site, the former Rainsford School, is underway. It is time to resolve the future of this important site and to design the right mix of development that integrates well with the rest of Melbourne and this part of Chelmsford.

“It is important to shape development in the light of community views, based on what is needed locally. The City Council has a role to steer the development after land is sold to developers.”

Drop-in sessions are also planned as part of the consultation process which will run until 14 November with residents able to visit Langton Avenue Scout Hut on Friday 28 October between 4.30pm and 8pm or Saturday 29 October from 10am to 1.30pm.

For more information and to comment on the consultation visit chelmsford.gov.uk/stpeters or stpetersfuture.co.uk.