Approval for Basingstoke residential development

Tibbalds Planning and Urban Design, acting on behalf of Hampshire County Council, has been granted outline planning permission for the remaining phases of the Merton Rise residential-led development on the northern edge of Basingstoke.

The development includes up to 784 residential units, up to 1,500 sq m (16,146 sq ft) of local centre uses (Use Classes A1-5), 120 sq m (1,292 sq ft) of community office space and approximately 10 ha (25 acres) of open space, as well as car parking, cycle parking, landscaping and allotments.

The application, submitted on behalf of Hampshire County Council incorporates an updated masterplan for the area. The masterplan provides a framework for delivery of the site in line with Hampshire County Council’s vision for Merton Rise as a high quality, sustainable urban extension that is a welcoming and attractive place, driven by townscape character. It also provides regeneration benefits to the adjoining neighbourhood of Popley.

The masterplan has built in flexibility for different design approaches which can be taken forward as part of the detailed development of the masterplan, while ensuring that core principles of urban design, good practice and a contemporary take on traditional built forms are followed.

This is a new consent for the remaining phases of the original outline planning permission which was granted in 2004. The new scheme includes provision for more family homes rather than apartments, an increased affordable housing provision – up to 40% from 26% in line with local policy – and a revised local centre, all in response to changing demand and local requirements.

Hilary Satchwell, Director of Tibbalds Planning and Urban Design said:
“The new masterplan has responded to recent changes in the market and now offers development opportunities that are more suited to family housing, have a lower risk profile and benefit from infrastructure and educational facilities already in place – without compromising the long term success of the Merton Rise community as a whole.”