CONSTRUCTION work on a controversial housing development in Halstead is now complete.

Developers Bellway have announced it has finished work on the 218-home Willow Park estate.

The scheme, built off Winston Way, was launched in March 2020.

Concerns were raised by residents over access to the site, building on green space, and overdevelopment.

The site features a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties, with just seven houses remaining for sale at the development.

The development also includes more than 30 acres of parkland and public open space with footpaths and a children’s play area, as well as wildlife habitats.

Jenny Walker, sales director of Bellway Essex, said: “Willow Park has proved popular with buyers because of the spacious design and the generous amount of public open space here.

“The houses themselves are modern, airy and stylish and the housing mix means there have been properties for people at different stages of their homebuying journey, from first-time buyers and downsizers to people looking for more space and room for growing families.

“It is highly satisfying to come to the end of construction here at Willow Park and see the wonderful community that has grown and developed here.”

The scheme has also generated nearly £1.7million in investment for the area.

The funding will support services and infrastructure in the area and includes £1.2million for education and more than £200,000 for outdoor sports.