Strategy And Vision.

The vision for the settlement sets out the main objectives, components, characteristics and qualities of the development, and addresses its environmental, social and economic aspects. The settlement a holistically planned new development which enhances the natural environment and offers high-quality affordable housing and locally accessible work in beautiful, healthy and sociable communities.(TCPA, 2021). The vision is guided by the principles of the garden city approach the guiding principles are;

· Land value capture for the benefit of the community.

· Strong vision, leadership and community engagement. Community ownership of land and long-term stewardship of assets.

Mixed-tenure homes and housing types that are genuinely affordable.

A wide range of local jobs in the Garden City within easy commuting distance of homes.

Beautifully and imaginatively designed homes with gardens, combining the best of town and country to create healthy communities, and including opportunities to grow food.

Development that enhances the natural environment, providing a comprehensive green infrastructure network and net biodiversity gains, and that uses zero-carbon and energy-positive technology to ensure climate resilience. Strong cultural, recreational and shopping facilities in walkable, vibrant, sociable neighbourhoods.

Integrated and accessible transport systems, with walking, cycling and public transport designed to be the most attractive forms of local transport.

(TCPA,2021)

This is a landscape led approach and it addresses the environmental, social, cultural and economic components of the new town. The development will be distinctive and monocentric and bring a carbon zero, energy positive economically vibrant and diverse hub to the district that augments the lives of the people of the forest and reflects its uniqueness. The settlement responds to the key drivers of change not least climate change but local issues such as employment and housing shortages within the area. The need for more connected and local services including healthcare social care and education. All vital components of the design and place the development within the district wide strategy.

Connectivity and context: The plan shows some of the possible options for sustainable transport and connection with neighbouring settlements. The main green / blue infrastructure incorporates the Ley and Westbury Brooks and the woodland of the higher ground to the north. Housing massing and final positioning of the train station and services come in the next phase. (Basemap OSM,2023)