LAND EAST OF
HITCHIN ROAD, HENLOW

THE SITE

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The Land east of Hitchin Road extends to approximately 5.41 hectares and is located to the north of Henlow Camp. The Site’s southern boundary wraps around Derwent School, adjoining the residential streets of Whitworth Jones Avenue and Dawson Close.

Vehicle access is obtained from the B659 via an agricultural gate. The B659 is one of the main service roads into Henlow Camp from the north connecting the village to the surrounding settlements of Henlow, Arlesey and Clifton. This means the site is in a sustainable location as it is well connected to existing facilities and services.

The whole site is used for agriculture with no existing physical structures. Trees and hedgerow mark the boundary of the whole site, with a strip of hedgerow dissecting through the middle, east to west. There are no watercourses within or neighbouring the site with the whole site falling within Flood Zone 1, the lowest probability of flooding.

The site is allocated for residential development in the Central Bedfordshire Local Plan (2015-2035) under Policy HAS23. It is identified in the Local Plan (adopted July 2021) that the site has an approximate capacity of 101 dwellings.

THE DESIGN

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The Development Framework Plan has evolved through design refinement to create a sustainable, interconnected, and unique development for Henlow Camp.

In designing the Development Framework Plan, careful consideration has been given to the site’s location at the northern boundary of Henlow Camp, ensuring it is harmonious with the surrounding rural countryside. To achieve this, the framework incorporates an extensive landscaping strategy, with key movement routes lined by vegetation to create green corridors. This forms a cohesive Green Network that connects the site to adjacent green spaces and existing green infrastructure. The use of vegetation throughout the site facilitates a seamless transition from the urban fringe to the open countryside.

The Development Framework Plan proposes a density and scale of development that is in keeping with existing built form of Henlow Camp.

• Increased Housing Supply: Up to 115 new dwellings to help meet local housing demand.
• Diverse Housing Options: A mix of housing types and sizes to cater to families and individuals of various ages and needs.
• Affordable Housing: At least 30% of homes will be affordable, addressing Central Bedfordshire’s housing waiting lists and providing options for lower-income families.
• Sustainable Design: Implementation of blue and green infrastructure to manage water runoff and enhance environmental sustainability.

• Ecological Benefits: An extensive landscaping strategy creating green corridors and a Green Network, supporting local biodiversity and wildlife habitats.
• Retention of Natural Features: Preservation of existing hedgerows, maintaining the site’s natural character and contributing to landscape aesthetics.
• Community Spaces: Integration of social and leisure spaces, including a Local Equipped Area for Play (LEAP) and amenity areas, promoting recreational opportunities and community well-being.
• Public Realm Enhancement: Development of attractive public spaces that benefit both new and existing residents, improving overall quality of life.