The site is to be prepared and submitted for residential development. A planning application has not yet been submitted; the proposals are presently evolving. We envisage a proposal for in the order of up to 93 houses, which we are currently testing against the site’s constraints and opportunities.

The housing layout will reflect the current housing mix policy, which emphasizes the need for a mix of housing types and sizes to meet the needs of all demographics. The proposed development would also incorporate a suitable density. This is important in order to ensure that the development includes a realistic number of dwellings and meets the NPPF’s requirements to maximise densities.

The scheme would be sympathetic towards the surrounding character and would utilise an access point from both Brandon Close and Chapel Drive.

The development of this site is a demonstrably deliverable option for providing housing led development in the local area. There is a bespoke opportunity to provide housing which can deliver clear benefits to the local area, and not only provide housing, but also create a high quality, landscape led, climate resilient development that provides a new living opportunity for local residents. Ultimately, this proposal will help the Council meet its housing delivery target.

The proposals will incorporate natural open space, native tree and hedgerow species and appropriate buffering to ensure that the proposed development would not undermine the character of the surrounding rural area. The site lies within a 12.6km designated Zone of Influence (ZoI) of the Ashridge Commons and Woods Site of Special Scientific Interest, which comprises a component of the SAC. To mitigate any potential significant adverse harm to the SAC, an on-site SANG has been proposed and is shown on the indicative Master Plan. The proposed mitigation has been presented to and agreed with Natural England who concluded that the proposed scheme would not affect the integrity of the SAC.

The site immediately adjoins the existing settlement, giving it a high degree of locational sustainability and making it the next logical site for housing.