Leicester City currently has a large unmet housing need as they are only able to provide 21,118 dwellings of an overall need of 39,424 dwellings. The land off Heacham Drive is proposed as an allocation (site reference: 1042) within the emerging Local Plan to assist in providing much needed housing. This site will be able to contribute 60 dwellings with affordable housing towards the housing needs of the city.
In previous applications that have been submitted for this site, some concerns were raised in relation to loss of open space. Within the Inspectors’ Post Hearing Letter, (provided following the examination of the emerging Local Plan), it is stated that housing allocations made on open space in this location are justifiable to meet development needs for the city. The proposed development on the land off Heacham Drive will provide 60 dwellings, which will ensure that housing and amenity space is not cramped, and also allows for enhanced open space to be provided on the site.
Barratt David Wilson are committed to providing biodiversity enhancements and supporting wildlife. Ecologists will undertake surveys of the site to establish biodiversity currently present on the site, and enhancements will be made via a comprehensive landscaping scheme on the site.
The proposed development will deliver housing which are M4(2) compliant (adaptable homes) or M4(3) compliant (accessible for wheelchair users). New high-quality pedestrian and cycle routes will also be created throughout the site which will connect Chelwood Lane and Heacham Drive. These pedestrian routes will provide accessible paths for new and existing residents towards the open space to the east of the site.
Following submission of the application, Barratt David Wilson will enter into a Section 106 legal agreement which will provide various financial and non-financial contributions to the local community and Leicester city.
Access will be taken from Chelwood Lane and extends throughout the site. The roads will provide a suitable width to allow for safe driving as well as tracking of refuse vehicles. All dwellings will be provided with at least 2 parking spaces and visitor parking will be provided to prevent street parking jeopardising the safety of the road network.
Previously, concerns were raised regarding drivers using the site to use as a short cut to Somerset Avenue. The proposed scheme does not provide any vehicle access onto Somerset Avenue. Strong pedestrian links will be provided with new and enhanced crossing points to encourage walking and cycling and reduce car dependency.
Any impacts to the highway network will be mitigated for through the design of the site as well as working with the Local Highway Authority.
The development will provide each dwelling with an Electric Vehicle Charger Point (wall mounted on a driveway or freestanding) to encourage the use of electric vehicles. The new dwellings will also be in accordance with the most current building regulations, to maximise efficiency and sustainability of future homes. High-quality pedestrian and cycle paths will also extend throughout the site to support walking and cycling as well as reducing the dependency on cars.
The materials used in the construction of the housing will be in keeping with the local character of the surrounding area with feature plots to be designed in key locations to form a legible street scene. To further enhance the appearance of the street scene, street trees will be planted which will also provide ecological benefits. Additionally, all dwellings will include a minimum of 2 parking spaces, with designated visitor parking. This will reduce on street parking, enhancing appearance but also improving safety.
A Construction Management Plan will be prepared and submitted to the Council for approval prior to the commencement of any construction on site. The Construction Management Plan will provide further details on how any adverse impacts such as dust and noise will be mitigated.