Bellway has reached a strategic milestone in its Essex operations with the rollout of its first large-scale timber-frame development at Francis Gardens in Silver End. During a recent site visit, Witham MP Dame Priti Patel met with the construction team to view the application of modern methods of construction (MMC), which are central to the housebuilder's long-term sustainability and efficiency targets.

The 94-home project moves away from traditional masonry in favour of timber-frame structures for every unit on the site. This technical shift allows the build team to reach the watertight stage approximately 40% faster than conventional methods, significantly shortening the overall construction programme. The frames are produced at the developer's dedicated Bellway Home Space factory in Nottinghamshire, which began supplying sites in January 2026. This vertically integrated supply chain supports the company's objective to build 30% of its homes using timber frames by 2030 as part of its "Better with Bellway" strategy.

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Paul Feeney, Construction Director at Bellway Essex, emphasized the technical and environmental advantages of the approach: "We are committed to much greater use of timber frames as part of our wider sustainability strategy. The trees we use absorb carbon throughout the time they are growing, which offsets the amount of carbon needed to process the timber. All the wood is responsibly sourced, which means that for every tree felled, another is planted. Timber frame homes require less energy to produce and less energy to heat due to their exceptional thermal efficiency. They also speed up the build process, allowing homes to be watertight almost 40 percent quicker, meaning that high-quality, energy-efficient properties can be delivered at greater pace to meet demand. Thanks to the use of timber frame and the inclusion of solar PV panels, the homes at Francis Gardens will achieve a 19 per cent improvement in energy performance over the requirements of the 2013 Building Regulations."

The development also delivers a substantial community investment package totalling more than £1.7 million. These funds are earmarked for local infrastructure and public services, including over £1.5 million for education and school transport, alongside £44,500 for the expansion of Silver End Surgery. The site will also feature public open spaces, a play area, and allotments to serve the new residents.

Dame Priti Patel highlighted the importance of balancing housing delivery with community needs and affordability.

She said: "During my visit to the new Francis Gardens development, I discussed these priorities with Bellway, as well as seeing how the modern, sustainable timber-frame homes are being delivered, helping to improve energy efficiency while supporting local construction jobs."

The project provides a mix of 57 private homes and 37 affordable units for rent or shared ownership, ranging from one to four bedrooms. Construction is progressing at pace, with the first residents expected to take occupation this summer.