MEC were commissioned by Richborough to support the Development at Huddlesford Lane by providing a range of pre-planning technical reports.
The site area covers approximately 3.27-hectares and currently comprises of agricultural land, and existing dwellings and roads. The outlined planning application is to demolish the existing dwelling and garage associated with Highfields, to construct 72 dwellings with access, landscaping, sustainable drainage features and associated infrastructure.
Flood
Our flood team supported the project with a comprehensive Flood Risk Assessment and drainage strategy to help ensure the development could be delivered safely and sustainably.
The assessment covered all sources of flooding and confirmed that the Site was at a low risk of flooding from these sources.
To manage surface water runoff from the proposed development effectively, the team developed a drainage strategy based on national and local prevailing guidance, centred around infiltration techniques, allowing water to soak naturally into the ground and reducing runoff from the Site. Recommendations were made in regard to finished floor levels to further reduce the potential impact on any residual flood risks that may remain from climate change influences and abnormal storm events.
The wider drainage strategy included considerations for future urbanisation (urban creep) and climate resilience in accordance with current guidance. As part of a sustainable approach to water management, the team also encouraged the inclusion of Sustainable Drainage Features (SuDS) including permeable paving, and above ground green infrastructure such as attenuation and infiltration basins. This helps slow, filter, and naturally treat surface water prior to discharge.
For foul drainage, the team worked closely with Severn Trent Water to identify sustainable points of connection to the existing public network and confirm that the existing network could accommodate flows from the proposed development, in line with relevant statutory requirements.
Through continued engagement with local and national stakeholders, the flood team were able to provide a compliant Flood Risk Assessment and drainage strategy supporting a sustainable and resilient development which ensures the development and third-party land remain safe for its lifetime.
Utilities
A Utilities assessment was undertaken to determine the capacity for the overall development. It was confirmed that there was adequate capacity for foul drainage and clean water to be provided by Severn Trent Water and South Staffs Water, both without the requirement for reinforcements.
It was also confirmed there is capacity for Gas and Electric. Whilst there was no need for reinforcements, a new electricity connection would be required.
The utilities assessment also highlighted that there was a great choice of connectivity across telecoms services.
Acoustics
MEC carried out a detailed Acoustic Assessment to determine noise levels both on the proposed development and surrounding it.
Acoustic modelling demonstrated that all gardens on the site will not need mitigation. For the most exposed dwellings in sight of Huddlesford Lane and the recreational sports grounds, standard 1.8m high fencing is recommended along garden boundaries to ensure suitable noise levels are achieved.
For those dwellings that were considered most exposed, it was determined that provisions of standard thermal glazing and window mounted trickle ventilators would satisfy criteria.
With the implementation of the recommended mitigation strategy, the team confirmed the site will be suitable for residential development.
Sustainability Assessment
MEC provided a sustainability assessment to support the planning application. It has been outlined how the development proposals will implement sustainable design and construction techniques to reduce waste and energy consumption during the pre and post construction stages meeting the aims of the National Planning Policy Framework.
Geo-Environmental
The Geo-Environmental team carried out a desk study and initial conceptual site model to determine that the environmental risk to the site is low, with principal risk drivers related to agricultural activities. The team excavated four locations to get a soil infiltration rate to assist the design of soakage systems of site. This assessment confirmed a shallow foundation design will be appropriate for the majority of the site, bearing on the anticipated Helsby Sandstone Formation.
It was recommended that next steps should include a Phase II Intrusive investigation to determine the underlying geology, extent of ground contamination, potential requirements for ground gas protection measures, and clarification of civil engineering design requirements.
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