Planning application submitted for revised Parkway development

The original scheme for 379 homes was halted following a Cabinet decision in June and Council decision in July. Officers were asked to develop a revised scheme that was contained within the former College of West Anglia site off Parkway. The new scheme is for approximately 226 homes, with a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bed properties, including four blocks of flats. Available for sale and private rent as well as shared ownership, along with 15% of the site being allocated as affordable properties.

Cllr Richard Blunt, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Development, said: "This revised scheme will not only create around 226 much-needed homes, but will also help stimulate the economy and create jobs and apprenticeships through the construction process.

“The scheme includes improved cycle and pedestrian connectivity that will link to the current local cycling and walking plan and will tie-up with routes around the town."

Cllr Paul Kunes, Cabinet Member for Environment, added: "To protect the environment there will with no development on the eastern side of the site as originally planned. This development will be an exemplar scheme which links firmly to our carbon reduction commitment and my climate change emergency declaration.

"Our fabric-first approach would see each new home on this development being built with air source heat pumps and underfloor heating to maximise their efficiency and minimise their impact on the environment. Homes where roofs are aligned with the sun will have photo voltaic panels installed. Parking spaces will be electric charging ready, with ducts and draw strings laid, and garages will have electric vehicle charging points installed.

“The design of the scheme means that we are removing as few trees as possible and for every tree that is removed a further three will be planted.”

Archaeology surveys will be undertaken in October in readiness for the determination.