Tor Bryan in Ingatestone, Essex is a modern and somewhat unique private estate of 72 houses of varying types and sizes located directly off the Roman Road towards the southern edge of the village.

The estate was developed between 1966-72 to the designs of a London firm of architects, Design & Planning Associates. A few years ago its special character began to be recognised by the authorities with Essex County Council’s Historic Buildings and Conservation Department stating in a Conservation Area Character Appraisal that: ’This estate is a striking and innovative example of a post-war housing development with bold modern architecture, varied detailing and a distinctive palette of materials. It is attractively landscaped with mature trees and planting.’ The estate now forms part of the extended Station Lane Conservation Area.

The private nature of the estate derives from the fact that its roads and common, landscaped areas are not adopted by the Local Authority but are owned and managed by a residents’ management company, Tor Bryan ( Residence ) Ltd, in which all householders are shareholders. The company costs of running and maintaining the estate are met by an annual levy on all householders.

Apart from any approvals which may be required by planning, Building Regulations and other statutory requirements alterations and additions to properties are also governed by covenants. The benefit of these covenants is held by the management company who operate a simple system for residents seeking covenanted consent.

In the early years the community aspects of Tor Bryan were enhanced by a central television aerial for the estate as well as a central oil supply system. Time and technical changes led to the demise of these facilities but otherwise the ethos of the estate remains unchanged. There is an assumption that not only existing residents but also newcomers attracted to the environment will wish to both respect and maintain the character of the estate.

Other pages on this website provide an information database for the benefit of residents, prospective residents and their solicitors, estate agents and others with an interest in Tor Bryan.

(For a detailed history of Tor Bryan and the Petre family click here )