Planning approval for new almshouses in Saffron Walden

At its meeting on 16 October 2024, Uttlesford District Council’s planning committee approved the proposed development of 16 new homes at Saffron Walden Almshouses.

Chair of Trustees, Gary Hyams said:

“This is a significant milestone in our Project Crocus plans to provide the people of Saffron Walden with new affordable housing. I’d like to thank my fellow volunteer Trustees, who have contributed a huge amount of time, effort, and expertise to produce a sensitively-designed yet modern scheme.

“This decision is the first step towards replacing the seven uninhabitable Primes Close bungalows, and increasing the number of almshouses that we offer. Almshouses are the UK’s oldest form of community housing. Saffron Walden Almshouses currently provide 40 homes for local people on low incomes who would not be able to afford to rent privately. The 16 new homes, which will be situated behind the main Almshouses on Abbey Lane, in the heart of the town, will be affordable, highly sustainable, fully accessible, and energy efficient. Planning of the exploratory work required ahead of the main construction has already started so that we can open the new homes to residents as soon as possible.”

John Kerr, chair of Saffron Walden Almshouses’ fundraising committee noted that:

“Our attention now turns to our major capital fundraising campaign and we are now seeking an experienced fundraiser to join our team, to help us to deliver Project Crocus. If you have a proven track record of securing large-scale funding in a charity environment and think this role is for you, full details can be found on our Recruitment page. The closing date for applications is Friday, 1st November 2024.”

Image: View of proposed new almshouse building viewed from Park Lane.