A landmark regeneration project bringing new life to a historic site
Set along one of Colchester’s oldest routes, the original Roman road into the city, Lexden Gardens is transforming the former Essex County Hospital site into a contemporary residential neighbourhood rooted in heritage. The hospital, which closed in 2018, now sits at the heart of a three-phase masterplan that will deliver 120 new homes over the next five years. This development marks a new chapter for a prominent and much-loved location.
Phase 1: Setting the benchmark
Phase 1 delivers 63 homes through a carefully balanced combination of Grade II listed conversion, complex façade retention and sensitively designed new build construction. Every element has been shaped by the site’s archaeological significance. Enabling and archaeological works were completed ahead of construction to ensure the development respects and reflects its historic context.
In October 2025, Phase 1 reached a major milestone with its topping out ceremony, marking the completion of the external structure. Homes are expected to be available to purchase off plan soon, with completion anticipated later this year.
Delivered under a Design and Build contract, Phase 1 includes:
- Heritage restoration: Conversion and renovation of the Grade II listed former hospital buildings, retaining key architectural features.
- Façade retention: Preservation of a historic frontage, with new accommodation constructed behind to maintain the character of the streetscape.
- New‑build homes: Contemporary properties designed to complement the historic fabric and enhance the site’s setting.
- Landscaping and public realm: A revitalised green frontage and landscaped courtyards that support the “Lexden Gardens” identity.
The project has already received industry recognition, including a Premier Guarantee Gold Monthly Award in September 2025 and shortlisting for the WAN Future Projects Residential Awards in March 2026.
Our Role
Appointed by Essex Housing Development LLP, Potter Raper is providing:
From the earliest stages, our team has played a central role in shaping a viable, heritage led development that balances ambition, complexity and commercial certainty.
Our work has included:
- Strategic procurement and phasing, establishing a robust Design & Build tender and enabling the wider three‑phase programme.
- Proactive Contract Administration, meeting on a regular basis to agree solutions to the issues which naturally arise on these types of projects. Building a team atmosphere to ensure all parties are working together to the benefit of the project.
- Cost planning and risk management, ensuring the scheme remains aligned with the client’s objectives throughout design and delivery.
- Value Engineering leadership, navigating heritage constraints and technical challenges to maintain viability without compromising quality.
- Stakeholder coordination, supporting engagement with heritage, archaeological and statutory bodies to ensure compliance and clarity at every stage.
Our work on Phase 1 has helped establish a strong foundation for the wider three phase masterplan. The development strategy, phasing and cost approach now support the long-term vision for the site.
Key Challenges
Delivering a complex heritage‑led scheme within a fixed‑price Design & Build route requires careful coordination and robust project controls. Key challenges included:
- Working with a Grade II listed building, requiring close engagement with the Listed Building Officer and heritage specialists.
- Archaeological constraints, due to the site’s position on the original Roman road into Colchester.
- Complex phasing, ensuring Phase 1 enables future phases while maintaining safe access and efficient logistics.
Looking Ahead
Phase 1 sets a strong precedent for the wider regeneration of this historic site, demonstrating how heritage restoration, archaeological insight and modern residential design can come together to create a distinctive new neighbourhood for Colchester.
As the project moves forward, we look forward to continuing our work with Essex Housing Development LLP and seeing the full masterplan take shape.
Visit our Lexden Gardens project page to find out more – https://potterraper.co.uk/project/lexden-gardens/
Images courtesy of Chetwoods.
