The site

Flood risk and drainage

Planning permission will only be granted if a flood risk assessment is undertaken and the results are shown to be satisfactory. That means the proposed development will not flood, will not cause the surrounding areas to flood and will not have a detrimental impact on the underlying situation. Our proposals will demonstrate how we will deal with water, not only to manage flood risk but to achieve betterment over the current situation.

Transport

All development, large or small, has an impact on existing infrastructure. Large developments can better manage and minimise those impacts compared to smaller, piecemeal development. We will minimise the impact on local roads by providing facilities on-site to reduce the need to travel, whilst also delivering targeted off-site improvements, and promoting sustainable, alternative means of travel appropriate for a 21st Century Garden Town.

Landscape features

As well as seeking to retain existing features, new tree planting will enhance the character of the new place. We are considering where, what and how, to make the site as attractive as possible and protect views from key locations in the surrounding area.

Wildlife and ecology

As a garden town, the “green” elements within it are key to its character and identity. We will include features within the proposals that not only maintain it’s ecological value, but enhance it. We’ve undertaken surveys across the full extent of the site and we understand what is and what isn’t here. The strategy will ensure we deliver a Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) of at least 10%.

Existing villages and their setting

Landscape buffers, planting and land uses are being carefully considered to maintain the integrity and value of individual homes, Aston on Carrant, Northway, Ashchurch, Aston Cross, Tewkesbury and other local villages.

Listed buildings and heritage assets

New development proposals must preserve or enhance the setting of special buildings and structures to maintain their integrity. Landscape buffers, planting and land uses are being carefully considered to maintain integrity and setting.

Public rights of way

There are a number of public rights of way within the site and in the wider area which provide access to the countryside, existing villages, and leisure routes for walkers. You can find out where these are here https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/public-rights-of-way/rights-of-way-online-map/

All public rights of way will be retained and improved, except the dangerous railway crossings which will be replaced with better routes, accessible to everyone. New accessible footpaths and cycleways will enable access to land within the country park.