Plans submitted for new super-estate in Bromsgrove
REAL estate adviser, Bilfinger GVA has submitted a duplicate planning application to Bromsgrove and Redditch councils for a massive new housing development comprising 2,800 homes.
Currently in agricultural use, the 336-acre site – identified as Green Belt – is adjacent to Webheath, approximately 1.5 miles from Redditch town centre.
Despite its designation, both councils are advocating for the removal of the land from the Green Belt in order to support cross-boundary growth and to help meet the area’s new homes allocation.
Through its Emerging Local Plan, Redditch Council has identified a housing need for approximately 6,400 dwellings by 2030, but can only demonstrate capacity for 3,000, leaving a significant shortfall.
The application proposes a mixed development comprising flats and one to five bedroomed homes – 40% of the scheme would comprise affordable housing.
The proposed scheme also includes provision for a three-form entry first school with associated playing area and parking, provision of 130 acres open space, a mixed-use community facility and retail units.
Bilfinger GVA has submitted the application on behalf of Heyford Developments and UK Land and Development, which will bring forward the proposals.
Jon Kirby, Director in the Midlands Planning, Development and Regeneration team at Bilfinger GVA, said: “We have worked closely with Bromsgrove and Redditch District Councils, key stakeholders and the local community throughout the preparation of this application, which has included a comprehensive programme of masterplanning and technical work.
“The application takes into consideration the location of the development, the rural nature of its situation and proximity to the existing village of Webheath with limitations on the heights of buildings and the inclusion of significant quantities of open space to offset the impact of the development.
“While the majority of the application site lies within the administrative boundary of Bromsgrove District, a small area of land falls within the Redditch Borough boundary. Both councils have recognised the important contribution that this development will make in ensuring the delivery of housing to satisfy the Borough’s long terms housing requirements to 2030.”
Assuming planning consent is granted, work is scheduled to start in summer 2017, with completion of the full development expected in 2030.
