Brownfield research & development site to be developed into a landscaped residential scheme
Plans to develop Broadwater Gardens, the former BioPark brownfield site in Welwyn Garden City, have been approved following a planning appeal, with hgh Consulting acting as lead planning advisor throughout the 30-month process.
hgh client, HG Group, originally submitted plans for 289 homes in six blocks of up to nine stories and townhouses in Broadwater Road in December 2020, but these were rejected by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, following opposition from campaigners. The decision went against officer recommendation for granting approval after an extensive and positive collaboration between officers and HG Group’s project team.
Decision Reversed
An appeal against the decision was launched, with an eight-day public inquiry in July seeing the planning inspector reversing the original decision and approving the development.
“We are pleased that our proposals have been approved and we can move forward with developing much needed homes for local families with a significant affordable housing provision,” said Chris Benham, executive chairman and founder of the HG Construction Group.
“This scheme is exactly the kind of development which is needed to fill the gap in the housing market – taking a brownfield site in an area where there is a lack of available land and creating a new residential community with high quality amenities in an area close to the town centre.
Chris admitted he was surprised the original plans were rejected, and made clear his belief that the BioPark development will make a ‘long-term positive contribution’ to Welwyn Garden City.
Mark Westcott, Director of hgh Consulting said:
“Naturally we’re delighted to see the decision reversed on appeal, following a lengthy and complex planning process. This demonstrates the power of collaboration between Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council officers, Alan Camp Architects, many other expert consultants, our client and our team at hgh, to pursue the best outcome.”
For further details, please contact Mark Westcott, Director, hgh Consulting via email: [email protected]
Image courtesy of Alan Camp Architects