Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has given the go-ahead to the first phase of a £115m canal village in Hawkesbury, Warwickshire
A resolution to grant has been awarded for 204 homes, extensive infrastructure works and community facilities at the canal village in Hawkesbury.
Solihull-based Terra Strategic purchased the land unconditionally and then secured its allocation for at least 380 residential units, infrastructure and community facilities in the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Plan, which was adopted in 2019.
This first phase covers 32-acres and will include 204 high-quality dwellings, including a 25% provision of affordable housing.
In addition, there will be a circa 2,000 sq ft community building with a dedicated car park, allotments, orchard, Public Open Space and a children’s play area, a BMX track, cycle and pedestrian routes – including a new Sustrans link – habitat enhancement, landscaping and associated highway works.
The masterplan for the whole 72-acres has been carried out by Hampshire-based Thrive Architects, with Birmingham-based Malcolm Payne Design Group responsible for the detailed design for the first phase.
‘A new vibrant community’
James O’Shea, managing director of Terra Strategic said: “We are surprised by how close the decision was – bearing in mind it is an allocated site – but delighted that the planning committee has resolved to approve our application for this significant first phase of the scheme.
“This ‘canal village’ will create a vibrant new community, which is only a five-mile canalside walk or cycle ride into Coventry city centre.
“It will have a transformative effect on the local area, and we are especially keen for work to be able to commence as soon as possible, to coincide our multi-million-pound enhancements to the public realm with the 2021 City of Culture initiative.”
The 204 homes will include a wide range of accommodation, incorporating one-bedroom maisonettes, two-bedroom apartments and bungalows, and two, three and four-bedroom family homes. The homes have been designed with a striking mixture of red brick and render.
