gcp has secured planning consent for a development of 62 new affordable homes at Old Northwick Farm. Our detailed planning application amends previously approved proposals for this site. The revised approach was required by our client, Stonewater, to develop housing that is wholly affordable rather than the market-let housing of the previous approval.
The development will create a mix of new homes, including a small number of bungalows and self-contained flats. The proposals create public open space and includes off-site works of ecological and habitat enhancement, reinforcing the urban edge / rural interface of the site. The principal site considerations for development are generated by its context and location as well as some technical constraints arising from existing services infrastructure within and adjacent to the site. Our aim was to provide an informal layout that offers a landscaped edge to the open countryside and respects the privacy and security of existing homes adjacent to the site. Stonewater are keen to deliver homes of a high quality; spacious, attractive, secure and energy efficient. The design approach creates attractive homes that integrates new walking routes through the site to connect to surrounding open space and local heritage trails. Within the development opportunities have been taken to incorporate landscape elements including street trees and communal open space to enhance the development and integrate it with the surrounding landscape character. Landscape elements will incorporate fruit trees and edible planting to encourage interaction with the landscape and engage the local community with ideas of healthy eating and enjoyment of the natural environment.
gcp are passionate about designing high quality housing and creating great places for people to live. For this project we have designed new homes in a simple contemporary style to create a distinctive development that will have its own character and sense of place. Throughout the development key buildings are elaborated with pronounced gable details including simple projecting bay surrounds to windows. These elements provide key markers for moving around the site and add interest in locations where new housing overlooks the open countryside and landscape to the west.
Planning has been complex and required close working with planning officers and stakeholders from the outset. A planning submission was made in July 2019 with the support of officers and consultees and a recommendation for approval. Concern over the nature of development and potential flood risks around the site was a highly emotive issue that led to the initial application being refused at committee. A subsequent appeal and public hearing led to the dismissal of objections to the application and planning consent being approved. It is hoped that work will soon be able to start on site with the much-needed affordable homes becoming available towards the end of 2021.
