Outline planning approval has been granted for a new Farnborough development that will include more than 900 homes.
The Rushmoor Development Partnership (RDP) – an equal partnership between Hill Investment Partnerships Limited (Hill) and Rushmoor Borough Council (RBC) – has received the greenlight for its Civic Quarter Masterplan, located in the heart of Farnborough.
The development is set to deliver 960 energy efficient homes.
Air-source heat pumps will provide the new homes with hot water and heating; whilst green roofs and photovoltaic panels will help reduce residents’ energy costs, according to the developers.
Aside from the new homes, the development is set to include a leisure and civic centre, retail space, two mobility hubs, and over 1.93 hectares of green open space.
There will also be a new library, community space, two-hundred-bed hotel, and commercial space.
Biodiversity throughout the development is set to be increased with new verges, amenity grasslands, and new tree planting.
A new play space for residents is also part of the plans, as well as the relocation and upgrading of the current skatepark.
The two mobility hubs will comprise a multi-storey car park, electric car charge points, and electric scooter and cycle hire, all aimed at improving connectivity throughout the town centre.
Further, there will be “significant improvements” to the road infrastructure throughout the town centre, including the removal of the current gyratory and the installation of a T-junction.
‘Ambitious and transformative’
Commenting on the approval of the Civic Quarter masterplan, Andy Hill, group chief executive of the Hill Group, said: “This is another significant milestone for our successful investment partnership with Rushmoor Borough Council, and represents our biggest planning determination for the RDP.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to be part of such an ambitious and transformative project.
“Our plans for Farnborough’s town centre will provide much needed, sustainable new homes and fantastic amenities that will be enjoyed by the residents of Farnborough now and in the future.
“The RDP is committed to delivering a legacy of high-quality, sustainable development that will benefit the community for generations to come.”
Councillor Martin Tennant, Rushmoor Borough Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for Major Projects and Property, added: “We are thrilled with the approval of the outline planning for the Civic Quarter masterplan.
“The development will help to create a thriving, sustainable community in the heart of Farnborough, offering a range of amenities that will benefit residents for years to come.
“We look forward to bringing this vision to life.”
Detailed planning applications on plots will start to be submitted during 2023, with works commencing in late 2024.
Image: CGI rendering of part of the new Civic Quarter development in Farnborough
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