Traffic surveys near completion for 'urban village' scheme

A FAR-reaching plan to transform industrial land at Wallerscote into an urban village has moved a step closer.

For Brunner Mond, which owns the 50-acre derelict site has revealed new details of its proposals, this week.

And Brunner Mond is asking for the views and suggestions of local residents.

A masterplan - an initial concept of what the village would be like - has now been designed.

It shows a development of some 1,000 homes with budgeting for businesses and community facilities, as well as attractive and safe open spaces.

A park runs through the centre of the village and clearly defined routes link it with the River Weaver, adjoining neighbourhoods and Northwich town centre.

The impact of the new development on roads has been given careful consideration and the thrust of the design has been to create an environment where it is as easy to walk, cycle, or catch a bus as it is to drive.

Brunner Mond has also financed detailed traffic surveys and projections of the local area which are now nearing completion.

Initial findings indicate that improvements are likely to be needed to the swing bridge crossing at Winnington and the company is working with the authorities concerned on how this could be progressed.

Discussions are taking place with a major local supermarket about a shuttle bus to and from the village.

The possibility of creating a safe cycle and walking routes to Northwich town centre are also being discussed with Vale Royal Borough Council.

Much of the plan's fine detail, such as the type of community facilities which should be included, have yet to be decided and Brunner Mond is keen to have the views of local people.

"We would like to see this disused unsightly stretch of land replaced with a thriving, soundly-designed village which would bring benefits to the whole of the area," said Mark Chitty, a director of the company.

"We very much hope the community will want to help shape the plans so that they will include features and facilities that local people want to see.

"We are actively seeking ideas via questionnaires, public meetings, on our website and through a special Message Line," he said.

"The kind of areas people can comment on are the type of homes which should be built and whether they should be for rent of purchase.

"We'd also like to know for example if there are any community facilities such as specialist shops or places of worship which would benefit the whole community," he added.

During January the company is also planning to meet with a series of focus groups, which are representative of the local population.

The aim would be to chat with people of different age groups and interests to establish a range of opinions.

The ideas and views of the community will help frame the ultimate outline planning application which is likely to be submitted early next year.

Brunner Mond will also be looking for a partner developer who can take the application to the detailed stage.

Overall the current aims of the urban village include:

A development which is energy-efficient and ecologically sensitive.

A community which is both self-sufficient and able to interact with the wider community surrounding the site.

A distinct and individual place which strengthens the identity of the whole area.

An environment which makes walking around safe and enjoyable.

A range of facilities to support villagers' needs and places and spaces where a variety of activities can take place.

Home style to suit different age groups and price brackets.