Nature, biodiversity and landscaping
Our vision for green spaces across the site is based on three foundations: enhancing ecology, placemaking and minimising impact.
Enhancing ecology
The proposals aim to retain as much existing woodland, wetland and open habitat as possible, increasing Biodiversity Net Gain beyond 10 per cent – in line with national planning policy. More information about our plan to support the local ecology is available below.
A range of ecological surveys will be undertaken as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment, including for badgers, bats and birds.
The project team is also assessing various elements of the local environment, including air quality, climate change and noise. This will enable us to maximise opportunities to reduce potential impact and enhance the natural environment within proposals.
Placemaking
The site will look to create places for the community to enjoy, including accessible and open green space for public use, improvements to public rights of way in and around the site, new footpaths and cycle paths, and additional tree and shrub planting.
From areas dedicated to bird watching to expansive nature trails, there are many opportunities to deliver improvements and we welcome input from the community on what these could be.
Minimising impact
Our proposals will aim to minimise the impact of development on the surrounding landscape, including for local ecology and nearby heritage sites.
Surveys are being conducted to inform how we will best protect and enhance the site for nature and wildlife.
Improvements could include adding native hedgerows, wildflower verges, flower mixes to encourage biodiversity, rock piles and gravel beds, bird boxes, nesting aids and insect hotels.
Landscaping and habitats
In recent decades, the site has been used for mineral extraction and landfill. Our proposals will create opportunities for new landscaping and habitats.
The location of proposed development has been carefully chosen to help lessen any visual impact. That includes building on the lowest part of the site close to the M40, where surrounding woodland currently provides some natural screening.
Potential landscape measures that are also being considered include:
- Excavating soil so that the buildings are located below existing ground level, and using soil to create new embankments with planting which reduce visual impact
- Introducing new landscape ‘buffers’ through the planting of additional woodland and hedgerows
- Enhancing existing vegetation alongside the M40, providing natural corridors for wildlife and connecting ecosystems
Interacting with nature
To further improve public access and enjoyment of the area, proposals could include:
- Creating a nature park on the eastern side of the site, with heritage and wildlife trails
- Providing new recreational footpaths to enhance the existing local network of public rights of way
We are exploring different opportunities for visitors to enjoy these spaces, including:
- A variety of trails with different themes and terrain to suit families, adventurers, hikers and cyclists
- Huts, bird hides, bird watchtowers, board walks and seating to observe wildlife
- Informational boards, such as foraging / planting guides or historical facts
- Picnic areas and loungers to enjoy as part of a day out
- Dedicated educational areas for local schools and wildlife organisations
A variety of potential new trails
The newt trail
Water trail - for hikers, sport lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The heritage walk
Historical trail - for history enthusiasts, families and young children.
The red kite trail
Hiking trail - for hikers, bird lovers and sports lovers.
The hare trail
Playful trail - for families and young children.
The deer trail
Woodland and cycle trail - for adventurers, sports lovers, nature enthusiasts and cyclists.
The butterfly walk
Gentle, level trail - for families and young children.