Masterplans for new developments in Chelmsford

Masterplans are high level documents that set out what we expect from a new development. They relate to certain developments, including strategic and non-strategic growth sites allocated in the Local Plan. The Local Plan sets out the overall number and locations for homes, jobs and businesses along with the infrastructure needed to support growth.

We adopted an updated masterplan procedure in November 2025.

We use masterplans to help create excellent places to live, work and enjoy, and which are suitable for each individual site. They help us to make sure developments deliver what the area needs, while giving developers some flexibility.

Our Masterplan Procedure sets out the route we follow with developers for relevant sites. It includes details on: 

  • the three masterplan routes
  • the obligations for both us and developers/promoters
  • the extent of engagement with stakeholders and the public
  • the status of masterplans after they are finalised

There are some key milestones during the procedure, dependent on each route. These include:

  • producing the masterplan
  • submitting an outline planning application
  • submitting a reserved matters planning application, which provides the finer detail of the proposals

Chelmsford Garden Community

The consortium of developers has submitted its masterplan proposals for the Chelmsford Garden Community.

The following masterplans have all been through the consultation process and have Cabinet approval.

The approved plans are:

Document size

Some of these documents feature detailed information and are large in size. You may find it easier to download and view these documents on a desktop computer, rather than on a smartphone or tablet.

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