The landscape strategy starts with the site’s existing structure: hedgerows, mature trees and historic field patterns. These features are intended to be retained wherever possible and reinforced through new planting and habitat creation.
New green corridors would connect trees, hedgerows and open spaces through the site, creating routes for wildlife as well as a greener setting for residents. Meadows, swales, wetland planting and orchard landscapes are intended to support biodiversity net gain and reflect the wider wetland and peatland character of the area.
The landscape proposals include native hedgerows, meadow grassland, informal paths and seating areas, helping to create a setting that feels established and rooted in local character.
Green space woven through the neighbourhood
Open space is spread throughout the proposals rather than pushed to one edge of the site. The emerging layout includes a communal meadow, orchard space, edible planting areas and smaller greens close to homes.
Play is envisaged as a mix of formal and informal opportunities, including natural play features and smaller play spaces integrated into visible, well-overlooked locations. Walking routes are intended to be attractive, legible and easy to use, helping people move comfortably between homes, green spaces and the wider footpath network.
Accessibility
Vehicle access would be taken from Moor Lane. Internally, the layout would be organised around a clear street hierarchy, from the main access route through to quieter shared-surface lanes. Parking would be provided through a mix of on-plot spaces, garages and carefully designed on-street bays.
An important part of the proposals is improving conditions for people walking along Moor Lane, where footways are currently missing in places. New pedestrian connections and access improvements are proposed along the site frontage, including internal footways linking the new homes to Moor Lane and the Rotherwood Road byway. The proposals will also deliver visibility improvements at the site access, helping to enhance safety and accessibility for all users. Cycle storage would also be provided.