During a recent dialogue with long-time Borehamwood resident and community advocate, Sarah Mitchell, the excitement surrounding the newly approved Lyndhurst Farm development was unmistakable. As a journalist, I had the honour of capturing her experience and insights on this landmark project to inform our readers.
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On a brisk Thursday morning, amidst the bustling streets of Borehamwood’s town centre, I met Sarah at a quaint café to discuss the much-anticipated development. She had been closely following the progress and was eager to share her thoughts on what she described as a “fantastic addition” to the community.
“Plans for a ‘grey belt’ development of 186 homes at Lyndhurst Farm Borehamwood were approved by Hertsmere Borough Council,” Sarah began, her eyes alight with enthusiasm. “This is such a significant milestone for our town.”
The approved plans, spearheaded by Griggs Homes in collaboration with Success Property, have indeed garnered considerable interest. With 149 affordable homes and 37 market-rate homes, the development promises to address Borehamwood’s urgent housing needs.
Sarah, a resident of Borehamwood for over two decades, has witnessed the town’s evolution but also its struggle with housing shortages. “The blend of affordable and market-rate homes is a well-considered approach,” she noted. “It ensures a diverse community, which is crucial for the town’s growth.”
The Lyndhurst Farm development, located off Green Street, features a variety of home sizes: 38 one-bedroom properties, 57 two-bedroom, 73 three-bedroom, and 18 four-bedroom homes. Sarah was particularly impressed with the allocation of affordable housing. “Thirty per cent offered at social rent, twenty per cent at eighty per cent of market rents, and fifty per cent as shared ownership – it’s a balanced mix that caters to different needs.”
A highlight of our conversation was the new allotment site, a significant addition given the inclusion of the existing Stapleton Road allotments in the development site. “For existing plot holders to be automatically offered a plot at the new site, with double the size and added amenities, is a considerate move,” Sarah observed. “It demonstrates the developers’ commitment to preserving community resources.”
Traffic and accessibility concerns were also addressed in the plans, with more than 300 parking spaces and additional pedestrian and cyclist access from Stapleton Road. “The traffic modelling suggesting a ‘negligible’ impact is reassuring,” Sarah said. “It’s crucial that the development doesn’t overwhelm the existing infrastructure.”
The inclusion of a community building and a children’s play area, likely to be managed by the parish council, further enhances the development’s appeal. “These facilities will undoubtedly enrich community life,” Sarah remarked. “It’s not just about building homes but creating a vibrant, supportive environment for families.”
One of the major themes that emerged from our discussion was the collaborative effort behind the project. Councillor Christian Gray had described the development as a “blue riband” project, a sentiment echoed by many, including Sarah. “It’s rare to see such unanimous approval from the planning committee,” she said. “It speaks volumes about the quality and thoughtfulness of the proposal.”
Councillor Seamus Quilty’s praise for the novel and pleasing design, amidst the “huge pressures” on housing in Borehamwood, resonated deeply with Sarah. “It’s a testament to what can be achieved when there is a genuine commitment to community welfare,” she added.
As our conversation drew to a close, Sarah reflected on the broader implications of the development. With the government’s proposed new mandatory housing targets, boroughs like Hertsmere are under increasing pressure to deliver. “The approval of the Lyndhurst Farm development is a step in the right direction,” she concluded. “It sets a high standard for future projects and highlights the importance of affordable housing in sustainable community growth.”
Parting ways with Sarah, I felt a shared sense of optimism. The Lyndhurst Farm development, with its blend of affordable and market-rate homes, community facilities, and thoughtful planning, indeed represents a bright future for Borehamwood. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a genuine commitment to addressing community needs.
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