Landscaping & Ecology
Site Landscaping
In planning this proposed development, the team have tried to strike an appropriate balance between hard and soft landscaping, including tree lined streets, a network of open spaces and a sustainable approach to surface water drainage.
A substantial green link through the site is planned with ecological benefits. Importantly the development respects the mature trees on its boundaries and boosts tree numbers with new trees planted in public areas throughout the site and provision made for their long-term management.
Detailed ecological survey reports have been completed alongside an accompanying biodiversity study. These determine that the proposed ecological enhancements will deliver a substantially higher biodiversity net gain than that required by policy.
The majority of the site is officially classified as low grade and poor-quality agricultural land with little economic benefit. The proposal does not therefore have any impact on food production.
Energy, Access and Drainage
In terms of energy, the new homes will be built to Future Homes Standards and designed to minimise energy use. It is anticipated that the dwellings will benefit from air source heat pumps, EV charging point ready and photovoltaics to strive for carbon neutrality.
The vehicular access will be from Snakemoor Lane with plenty of parking provided for residents and visitors, which will adhere with council policy.
Access for refuse, fire engines and service vehicles on to the new site can be made conveniently and safely.
Environment Agency mapping indicates that the proposed development is at low risk of flooding from overland flows, sewers and groundwater.
The proposal for surface water drainage is to formalise the existing arrangement on site, with run-off restricted to the greenfield rate via a network of Swales, ponds and reed planting and conveyed to the watercourse on the eastern boundary. This approach comes with added benefits for biodiversity.