laindon shopping centre
Bidwells was instructed to obtain planning permission for the redevelopment of the Laindon Centre. The scheme included a new high street with shops, 244 homes, office space, a neighbourhood food store, a modern health centre and a new landscaped public realm enhancing the existing war memorial. A comprehensive and ongoing public engagement process attracted over 500 letters of support with only eight objections – unprecedented given the scale and nature of the proposal.
What we did
- Provided an initial assessment of market demand
- Advised on the development of a suitable scale and mix of retail and commercial uses to inform the development of the proposal
- Provided a retail statement in support of the proposals
- Provided a robust Screening Option Request to demonstrate that EIA was not required, saving the project time and expense
- Provided a robust viability appraisal to support the application, securing Basildon Council’s agreement to 16% Affordable Housing provision to ensure the scheme remained viable
- Coordinated and submitted a full planning application on behalf of the client
Result
- The committee praised the quality of the submission and resolution to grant was achieved well within the statutory 13 week determination period
- Swan anticipate main construction starting on site with the first phase in early 2018
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The scheme will have a major impact on the regeneration of Laindon and will provide a new focus for the community
244
home comprising houses and flats
