Developer has 'green vision' in plan for almost 100 homes in Flackwell Heath

A consultation on plans to build almost 100 homes next to a main road in Flackwell Heath is due to conclude at the end of this month.

Developer Berkeley Homes has earmarked greenbelt land between Heath End Road and Spring Lane, near to Buckinghamshire College Group’s Wycombe Campus, for the project.

Featuring fields, a farmhouse and barns known as Heath End Farm, the 5.4hectare site would be redeveloped to feature numerous semi-detached and detached homes.

On the consultation website, Berkeley Homes said its plans were ‘a logical extension’ to Flackwell Heath and would ‘embrace and work around the site’s existing natural features’.

The company said that, while Heath End Farm was considered greenbelt land, it would meet the criteria to be classified as greybelt - once protected land that can now be built upon.

A total of 98 new homes would be built under the plans, with access from Heath End Road and Spring Lane.

The consultation website described the site as ‘between existing development to the east and west, and south of the M40.

“As a result, it would be a logical extension to the existing settlement and meets the Government’s criteria for a ‘greybelt site’.

“Our vision comprises up to 98 homes, including 50 per cent affordable housing.

“The scheme would feature a landscape-led approach and there would be a biodiversity net gain of at least 10 per cent along with sustainable drainage systems.”

Affordable housing can be defined as homes sold or rented at no more than 80 per cent of the market value.

Biodiversity net gain refers to environmental improvements made to offset that lost if the development were allowed to take place.

Berkeley Homes claimed it had a ‘green vision’ for the site, which could ‘embrace and work around the site’s existing natural features’.

The consultation said: “Landscaping improvements and a biodiversity net gain of at least 10 per cent would also be delivered along with a pocket park and play space.

“The proposals also feature sustainable drainage systems.

“Dedicated cycle storage would be provided along with electric vehicle charging points to promote greener travel.

“Vehicular access would be provided via Heath End Road. Parking for residents and visitors would be provided on-site with the aim of avoiding any overspill.

“Additionally, energy-efficient heating systems and construction materials would also be used to minimise the carbon footprint of each property.”

The company’s consultation is open until January 31, and can be completed online at tinyurl.com/mdzn2txa

Feedback can be provided through the consultation website, by emailing mail@your-feedback.co.uk or by calling 0800 099 6712.

The developer said: “Once this consultation closes, Berkeley Group’s project team will go through the feedback received from residents and other important local stakeholders.

“We will then take this into consideration before progressing our scheme to the next stage.”