Plans published for planning application for Abbeyfield House
Detailed plans to support the planning application for Abbeyfield House have been published. These can be viewed on the Council’s planning portal, reference 25/0218/FULCLC.
Letters will be sent to immediate neighbours, and anyone can comment on the application within the public consultation section of the plans. Queries can also be raised via the ward Councillors.
The Council purchased the former Abbeyfield House Sheltered Accommodation on 24 January 2025 following completion of initial investigations, due diligence and vacant possession. The plan is to turn the building into a housing facility for homeless residents of Castle Point. These are people who have had to leave their homes or who can’t find a place to live. Some of them have had to move out of the borough. If the plan is approved, Abbeyfield House will be converted into 19 separate homes.
A decision on the planning application by the Council’s Development Committee is expected in June. If the planning application is approved, the process of finding and hiring a contractor will begin straight away. Redevelopment work would begin around September 2025 with occupation expected in spring 2026.
Cllr Rob Lillis, Portfolio Holder for Housing said: “The redevelopment of this property would be a major step in addressing ever increasing numbers of households now facing homelessness, offering safe and secure accommodation within the borough. We are fully committed to engaging with local residents about this scheme.”
Cllr Tom Gibson, Chair of the Asset Review Board said: “This scheme is an example of the proactive work being undertaken by the Council’s Asset Review Board to ensure the best use of existing buildings and seeking to find ways to purchase and use existing sites for the benefit of the local community.”