Chelmer Waterside

If you have any further queries about the scheme, you can contact the Economic Development Team.

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Latest news

The construction of the new bridge (named Bow Bridge Road) is now in the final stages.

The contractors are adding the finishing touches, and the works are now in the final stages of checking and approval by Essex County Council. ECC will then adopt the road and bridge as the highway authority.

These checks need to be completed before the bridge can be opened, which is expected to happen in May 2025.

Works to relocate the gas pressure reduction system are also progressing, despite further delays due to a flood event in January. Phase 3 of the new low pressure gas main through the Aspyre development began in February 2025 and should be completed by the end of May.

You can also view a layout plan of the Phase 3 works to see further details.

Background to Chelmer Waterside Chelmer Waterside is a large expanse of land to the east of the city centre. It used to be a gas works but the area faces directly onto three waterways and is less than a five minute walk from the city centre. This makes it a very attractive and sustainable place to build new homes.

Development framework To achieve the redevelopment of Chelmer Waterside, we have produced a planning framework to show how the remaining land could be developed in a co-ordinated and connected way.

Access road and bridge The new access road and bridge at Chelmer Waterside would link Wharf Road and Parkway, replacing the existing Bailey Bridge. There would also be improvements to the junction for Springfield Road and Navigation Road.

Gas Pressure Reduction System We are working with Cadent to design and relocate the Gas Pressure Reduction System (GPRS), which is currently located on the old gas works site. This will enable housing delivery on the site.

Newsletters View the newsletters we have issued throughout the course of the project.