The Proposal

The purpose of the consultation is to inform local people of the emerging masterplan and to gather residents’ views ahead of any formal planning application. The proposals have been informed by positive and collaborative pre-application discussions with Herefordshire Council planning, highways, landscape, and drainage officers.

DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK PLAN

The proposals include:

Up to 242 homes with a mix of sizes suitable for families, first-time buyers and older residents;

Of which, up to 84 will be affordable homes for local people whose housing needs are not met by the market;

Strong green infrastructure framework including retained hedgerows and trees and new planting and wildlife habitats;

New publicly accessible open space for recreation;

Benefits for nature through delivering a net gain for biodiversity;

New access from the A4103, designed for safe and easy movement;

Traffic calming measures along the A4103 to create a safer road environment;

Improvements to pedestrian and cycle links into Withington, and potential connectivity to the wider Public Right of Way Network; and

Sustainable drainage features integrated into the green network, to collect and manage surface water and improve water quality.

Scheme Benefits

Delivery of up to 242 new homes, including affordable housing for local people, helping to meet identified housing needs and reducing pressure on public spending associated with housing shortages.

Creation of a mixed and inclusive community with a range of homes, tenures and housing choices.

Provision of around 4.6 hectares of public open space, including green spaces, recreation and play areas.

Support for healthier lifestyles through new walking and cycling connections and accessible green infrastructure.

Strengthening of Withington village by integrating new development with the existing community and supporting local services, facilities and businesses.

Increased local spending and investment, supporting services and businesses in the village, including at Whitestone Business Park.

Delivery of infrastructure improvements through planning obligations, including contributions towards transport, education and healthcare.

Landscape-led design and delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain.

Incorporation of sustainable drainage measures.

Support for the transition to low-carbon living through electric vehicle charging provision and a car club.