Architects have been appointed by Rother District Council to develop detailed designs for a new housing development in Battle.

BE Design have been appointed to progress the development at Blackfriars, which will deliver high quality low-carbon homes which maximise the use of solar energy and renewable energy technologies.

Cllr Terry Byrne, Rother District Council’s portfolio holder for housing, said: “It is important that this development positively contributes to the local identity and character of the area while respecting the neighbouring woodland.

“We assessed several bids but were impressed with BE Design’s approach to sustainable development which fits well with the district council’s ambitions to become carbon neutral by 2030.

“Although there is still much work to do, we look forward to seeing the detailed designs for this development which will be shared with residents as they progress.”

The site has been identified in the Local Plan for development for many years, and money from the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund has been allocated that will help to deliver the new road, making it possible to develop the site for desperately needed housing in the district.

The scheme, with at least 35 per cent affordable housing, will include green spaces and good quality public realm, while landscaped spaces will promote ecological biodiversity which will be enhanced throughout the existing woodland and through the further planting of wildflowers and diverse species.

Simon Powell, Director at BE Design, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this role and look forward to becoming part of the team delivering the next design phase of this prestigious project.

“Our vision for the development prioritises sustainable design and energy efficiency, to support the transition to a zero-carbon district, whilst celebrating the neighbouring mature woodland, bringing together the local community and creating a place that people will love.”

Site preparation and ecological mitigation has continued through the lockdown in line with Government guidance.  All work on site, including ecological mitigation subject to a European Protected Species licence granted by Natural England, has been carried out under the supervision of an ecologist.

The design team will now begin work on the design process which will lead to the submission of a full planning application. A public consultation will be held as the proposals develop, and it is anticipated a planning application will be submitted by the autumn.

Published: 9th June 2020