Sleaford, Lincolnshire

Peacock + Smith has been promoting a 70 hectare greenfield site adjacent to the built up area of Sleaford since 2015.  This large urban extension is being progressed on behalf of a consortium of five landowners. Peacock + Smith project managed the promotion of the site which involved: appointment of a consultant team; management of communications with the Council; preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); organising public consultation; and submission of an outline application. The approved scheme (prepared by DLA Architects) comprises:

• 1,400 dwellings (incorporating a care home/retirement units)
• A two form entry primary school
• A secondary education facility
• 3 hectares of employment land (Class B1)
• A local centre comprising a community centre, 1,190 sq m A1 retail floorspace with offices, public house and family restaurant, 40 bedroom hotel and health centre
• New roundabout access from the A15
• Outdoor sports facilities, public open space and sustainable drainage features

The key challenges with the project related to the timing of submission of the application (in the context of an evolving development plan process); flood risk; phasing of access arrangements and Section 106 negotiations.