TEP prepared development framework plans for four sites in West Berkshire. Our client wished to make representations to the local planning authority in relation to the preparation of the Local Plan and specifically the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) and appointed us to assist in understanding the suitability and capacity of the sites for future housing. TEP undertook landscape and visual assessments, ecology surveys, tree surveys and a historic environment assessment of the four sites and their surroundings, including part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The survey findings were compiled into constraints and opportunities plans and used to prepare a development framework for each site including development potential, drainage and highways. These plans were useful in facilitating discussion with the local planning authority and have been further developed into illustrative layouts, testing housing numbers, density, open spaces, recreation, wildlife corridors, access points and circulation for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.
The illustrative layouts for each site were used during the consultation process and to inform pre-application discussions with the local planning authority and other statutory consultees. Subsequently our client decided to submit outline planning applications for two of the sites and these have now been approved, subject to conditions and Section 106 agreements.
