Sustainable natural drainage system

The masterplan integrates a natural drainage system at all levels; source, pathway and receptor. The green arteries are based on existing topography and natural drainage patterns to allow a series of rain gardens and swales to become the main drainage spines of the development. Feeding into this system, a finer grain of sustainable drainage features within roads, parks and play areas focusses on the collection, retention, infiltration, purification and reuse of stormwater close to its source. This establishes an integrated, climate-adaptive water system that can respond to extreme weather conditions. Even during extreme rainfall, there is no surplus water flow to the downstream surrounding brooks.

To facilitate the mix of different land uses and existing and new communities, inviting and inclusive public spaces are integrated at different scales. The Farmstead is envisioned to become the lively heart of the district with (cultural) amenities sprawling from the existing Jacobean Farmhouse whilst the Central Park could offer multifunctional space for gatherings, sports and events in a green setting. In addition to a diverse range of programmed spaces, the public realm is designed to provide ample opportunity for appropriation, initiative, and cooperation: social life will not be orchestrated but rather permitted to evolve and thrive organically.

The car as a guest

Throughout the development, active travel is prioritised and car movement is limited in order to create better streets. Living streets with green space, trees and swales are designed to encourage meeting and playing and discourage all but essential vehicular use. Consolidated parking facilities and multi-modal hubs are strategically placed to capture motorised traffic early on, creating appealing car-light living environments.