Shenfield Library
In February 2025, DCH Construction proudly celebrated the grand opening of the brand-new Shenfield Library – a modern, sustainable space built to serve the community for generations to come.
Originally built in the 1960s, the old Shenfield Library had become costly to maintain and was in urgent need of repair. In 2022, DCH began work as principal contractor for Essex Housing, the award-winning in-house developer for Essex County Council, to bring their bold new vision to life.
The new library officially opened its doors in February 2025, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a wave of excitement from residents, councillors, and development partners.
The new library offers far more than books:
- Community meeting room
- Flexible commercial space
- Public garden and outdoor learning area
The new library was projected to achieve a 54% reduction in carbon emissions – well above regulatory requirements – and earned a spot on the shortlist for the Inside Housing Development Awards 2023 in the ‘Best Development – 100 Homes’ category for its architectural and sustainability credentials.
Since reopening, the Shenfield Library has:
- Increased its book stock by 15%
- Added three Rhyme Time sessions for toddlers
- Welcomed thousands of visitors eager to explore its upgraded spaces
View photos of Shenfield Library
Luxury Apartment Complex
Above the library sits Novus, a private apartment complex. Sales of the apartments helped fund the redevelopment of the entire site, including construction of the new library facilities. This was an innovative funding model from Essex Housing, no doubt saving the taxpayer money.
Designed by Chetwoods Architects, Novus features nine luxury apartments crafted with high-quality materials and modern finishes. The apartments near Shenfield station and just minutes from the A12 and M25 – perfect for commuters to London and further afield.
This development sets a new benchmark for eco-conscious design, achieving an EPC rating of A for the apartments with:
- Air source heat pumps
- Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery
- Electric vehicle charging points
- Solar panels
