It is proposed to submit a hybrid planning application (full and outline), which splits the site into two phases. The hybrid application will enable work to start soooner on the first phase of the development, before the full details of phase 2 is known.

The first phase would be a detailed application for 48 units, with second phase in outline for up to 89 residential units.

The masterplan for the emerging proposals for how the site might be laid out are shown below.

The site plan for the emerging proposals for phase 1 and how the site might be laid out are shown below.

The site plan for the emerging proposals for phase 2 is shown below.

We have designed the layout to be as considerate as possible to the existing nearby homes and heritage assets. Bungalows are proposed adjacent to the existing dwellings to the south, to avoid dominating or overlooking nearby homes. Within the plots parking has been provided in accordance with Suffolk County Council Parking Standards.

A Financial Viability Assessment has been prepared by Pathfinder Developer Consultants and has found that the provision affordable housing on site would not result in an economically viable level of land value, as required by the NPPF. This would be further exacerbated by the provision of a pre-school. It is therefore proposed to offer either land for a pre-school or approximately 6 affordable housing units, which would be First Homes.

The detailed appearance of the new homes has not yet been finalised, but is likely to follow a similar style to other Oldman Homes developments, as shown through the sketches adjacent. 

The design of the units fronting Parkhill would aim to create a strong built frontage. The dwellings would have simplified, minimalistic elevations, and opportunities have been identified for dwellings to include contemporary style large feature windows. The units fronting the site are also proposed to be bespoke, with different internally layouts to create more variation and interest.

For phase 1, a gently landscaped area of public open space and attenuation pond will be provided within the development. This area is framed by a new Wildlife Corridor which will run from East to West as well as North to South (please see Masterplan) a number of dwellings benefiting from the natural surveillance and existing prominent trees will be located on the Eastern side.

For phase 2, it is not proposed to develop the area formerly used as a Burial Ground, but offer this as a second area of Public Open Space. This new Local Amenity Space, will be sympathetically landscaped to enhance and further protect the archaeology. The western portion of the burial ground, is also proposed to be used for attenuation for exceptional events, as shown in the image below.

Section 4.11 of the Residential Development Brief also advises that a wildlife corridor should be incorporated from the north to the south of the site alongside the existing vegetation. A wildlife corridor would be provided running east-west, and north-south.

We are proposing to provide new footpaths to join up some of the existing Public Rights of Way around the site.  These include a new footpath/cycleway within the site connecting Parkhill to Union Lane, and a link to the existing footpath along the Parkhill frontage.

WLP2.14 of the Local Plan sets out that if needed at the time of the planning application, 0.09 hectares of land on the site should be reserved for a new pre-school setting.

Following pre-application discussions with East Suffolk Council, it was advised that there was a need for a pre-school setting. 

A Financial Viability Assessment has been prepared by Pathfinder Developer Consultants and has found that the provision affordable housing on site would not result in an economically viable level of land value, as required by the NPPF. This would be further exacerbated by the provision of a pre-school. It is therefore proposed to offer either land for a pre-school or approximately 6 affordable housing units, which would be First Homes.