Area Overview for CM8 3SS

Area Information

CM8 3SS is a small, defined postcode area in Essex, encompassing the village of Silver End. This rural settlement, spanning 1.5 hectares, is home to 2,310 residents, with a population density of 187 people per square kilometre. The area’s character is shaped by its origins as a model garden village designed in the 1920s by industrialist Francis Henry Crittall. Originally conceived to house workers for his Crittall Windows factory, the village was built on farmland at Boars Tye, blending modernist architecture with communal spaces. Today, it retains its self-contained charm, with surviving 1920s–1930s houses featuring large gardens, electricity, and sanitation. The community is centred around the village hall, Memorial Gardens, and a parade of shops on Broadway. Residents benefit from a quiet, rural lifestyle while remaining within reach of nearby towns like Witham and Braintree. The area’s planned design and historical significance make it distinct, offering a blend of architectural heritage and modern convenience.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
1.5 hectares
Population
2310
Population Density
187 people/km²

The property market in CM8 3SS is dominated by owner-occupied homes, with 79% of properties owned by residents rather than rented. The accommodation type is primarily houses, reflecting the area’s original design as a garden village with spacious, individual dwellings. This contrasts with areas dominated by flats or rental properties, making CM8 3SS more attractive to buyers seeking long-term, low-density housing. The limited area size (1.5 hectares) means the housing stock is small, potentially leading to competition among buyers. The presence of original 1920s–1930s houses, many with large gardens, adds historical value and uniqueness to the market. However, the small size of the postcode area means that buyers should consider nearby suburbs or towns for additional options. The high home ownership rate suggests a stable market, though the limited supply may affect price trends.

House Prices in CM8 3SS

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in CM8 3SS

The lifestyle in CM8 3SS is shaped by its rural setting and historical character. Residents have access to five retail outlets, including East of England Co-operative Co, Co-op Petrol, and Morrisons Rivenhall, ensuring everyday shopping needs are met. The village’s original design includes communal spaces such as the village hall, Memorial Gardens, and playing fields, fostering a sense of community. The proximity to rail stations and a bus interchange enhances connectivity, allowing easy access to nearby towns. The surviving 1920s–1930s houses, with their large gardens, contribute to a peaceful, low-density environment. Local amenities like the parade of shops on Broadway, which replaced the original department store, support a self-contained lifestyle. The blend of historical architecture and practical amenities makes daily life in CM8 3SS both convenient and distinctive.

Amenities

Schools

Residents of CM8 3SS have access to several schools within practical reach. These include Elm Hall Primary School, Rivenhall Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School, and The Rickstones School, all of which are primary institutions. Southview School is a special needs school, while New Rickstones Academy is an academy with an Ofsted rating of “good.” The mix of school types provides families with options from early years education to primary schooling, including support for children with special educational needs. The presence of an academy rated “good” by Ofsted indicates a strong educational offering in the area. For parents, the proximity of multiple schools reduces commuting time and ensures a range of educational environments. The variety of school types also caters to different family needs, from traditional state schools to specialist provisions.

RankSchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1Elm Hall Primary SchoolprimaryN/AN/A
2Rivenhall Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary SchoolprimaryN/AN/A
3The Rickstones SchoolprimaryN/AN/A
4Southview SchoolspecialN/AN/A
5New Rickstones AcademyacademyN/AN/A

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Demographics

The population of CM8 3SS has a median age of 47, with the majority of residents aged 30–64. This suggests a mature, stable community with a strong presence of middle-aged adults. Home ownership is high, at 79%, reflecting a predominantly owner-occupied area. The accommodation type is primarily houses, indicating a lack of high-density housing or flats. The predominant ethnic group is White, though specific data on diversity or minority representation is not provided. The age profile and ownership figures suggest a community focused on long-term residency rather than transient populations. With a population density of 187 people per square kilometre, the area maintains a low-key, suburban feel. The absence of specific data on deprivation or income levels means the area’s economic profile remains unclear, but the high home ownership rate implies a degree of financial stability among residents.

Household Size

Two person
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

79
majority

Ethnic Group

White
most common

Religion

N/A
most common

Household Composition

N/A
most common

Age

47
median
Adults (30-64 years)
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

38
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Premium
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Premium
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Premium
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Premium
  • Protected Woodland
    Premium
  • Crime Risk
    Premium

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Nearby Areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like in CM8 3SS?
CM8 3SS has a stable, mature community with a median age of 47 and a high home ownership rate (79%). The area’s planned design as a garden village fosters a self-contained, community-focused atmosphere. Residents benefit from low population density and access to historical architecture, creating a quiet, suburban environment.
Who lives in CM8 3SS?
The population is predominantly adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. Home ownership is high at 79%, and the accommodation is primarily houses. The predominant ethnic group is White, though specific diversity data is not available.
What schools are available near CM8 3SS?
Residents have access to primary schools like Elm Hall and Rivenhall, a special needs school (Southview), and New Rickstones Academy, which has an Ofsted rating of “good.” This mix provides options from early years to primary education.
How connected is the area for transport and internet?
CM8 3SS has excellent broadband (score 95) and good mobile coverage (score 83). Nearby rail stations include White Notley and Witham, and a bus interchange is accessible. This ensures reliable connectivity for work and daily use.
Is CM8 3SS safe to live in?
The area has a low flood risk but a medium crime risk (score 63). Crime rates are average, and standard security precautions are advisable. There are no protected natural areas, reducing environmental hazards but not directly affecting safety.

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