A property developer is seeking an allocation of land to expand the town of Royston in Hertfordshire – which could potentially see up to 1,400 new homes constructed.
Wilson Bowden, the commercial development division of Barratt Redrow, has identified a patch of land, known as Prospects Royston, that could be developed into new homes.
It has also suggested a parcel of land could be used for employment opportunities which could deliver an estimated 1,850 jobs.
Although Royston is in the north Hertfordshire district, it lies just 12 miles south west of Cambridge.
Ian Smith, Planning Manager at Wilson Bowden plc, said: “If Royston is to grow, we feel this is the best direction for a sustainable extension.
“There’s a great opportunity for the town’s development to be included in the Greater Cambridge Local Plan and bring a wide range of benefits to residents in Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire.
“Our vision for the Prospects Royston land includes a collection of high-quality new homes in an area where there is high demand for housing, alongside affordable housing, employment land and a vast range of infrastructure improvements.
“Should the land be allocated for potential development, we are keen to work with the local authorities to draw up plans to bring an exciting vision to life.”
Wilson Bowden says its vision for the site proposes over 50% green infrastructure, including a 40-hectare country park.
Proposals also incorporate new pedestrian and cycle paths, care homes, a local centre and a sports hub.
The sports hub would offer a solution to the lack of playing fields in Royston and would present a chance for existing sports clubs to relocate to new premises.
The concept of a 40-hectare country park in Royston mirrors the developer’s Trumpington Meadows development in Cambridge, which saw 1,200 homes built adjacent to a 58-hectare country park.
