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Southend Council is set to install an eight-foot acoustic fence around a development site off the A127 in a bid to protect future residents from traffic noise and pollution. The fence is proposed for the northern and western boundaries of the former Shalynn Cattery site, located off Prince Avenue, Westcliff, which is situated between the busy A127 and A1158.
The site, currently overgrown and used for open storage, is earmarked for a £12 million development of 30 eco-friendly homes built to Passivhaus standards. The timber acoustic fence is designed to reduce noise from the adjacent dual carriageway and will be constructed south of the existing boundary, thereby preserving the surrounding vegetation.
A temporary 2.4-metre-high timber hoarding, painted solid green, is also planned for the southern boundary fronting Prince Avenue. Public consultation has drawn six objections from five addresses, with concerns raised about the fence's height, permanence, and visual impact.
Residents also questioned the effectiveness of the acoustic barrier and expressed fears over the loss of trees, habitat, and outlook. Some called for the fence to be delayed until a decision is made on the housing development itself. The council states that the fencing is necessary to enhance site security and provide a buffer for future residents.
Conservative councillor Kevin Buck, former cabinet member for highways, said: "The acoustic fence will act as a noise barrier between the A127 and the new housing development. "While not a complete solution, it will help reduce road noise. The homes are being built to Passivhaus standards, which include triple glazing and airtight insulation-this should significantly mitigate indoor noise and make the homes extremely energy-efficient."
The council has confirmed that the application is separate from the housing plans but forms part of the wider strategy to prepare the site for development. A re-consultation on amended plans is currently underway.
Planning officers concluded that the fence and hoarding are acceptable in design and would not harm residential amenity or highway safety. The application has been recommended for approval, subject to conditions.
The eco homes, once built, will form part of Southend's strategy to expand its social housing stock with low-energy, sustainable living options.