Environmental Enhancements

Green space

Approximately forty per cent of the Nerrols neighbourhood will be green space comprising:

• Formal play space for children, including equipped play areas and multi-use games areas.
• A linear park of circa 5ha along the Maiden Brook, which could be the first phase of the 'country park' between Nerrols and Monkton Heathfield proposed by the Council.
• Green links and informal open space running through the site supporting wildlife, SUDs and providing access to the wider countryside.
• Retained hedgerows and mature trees to enhance the character of the development.
• Extensive new tree planting for wildlife and as a landscape buffer to 'screen' the development from sensitive viewpoints (an area of 'off site' woodland is also to be provided).

Landscape and visual setting

The proposals have been developed alongside a robust appraisal of landscape and visual sensitivities. In response to our appraisal the masterplan includes:

• The planting of over 15,000 new trees along the edge of the development and 'off site' woodland planting to screen it from locations such as Cheddon Fitzpaine public rights of way, Hestercombe House and the Quantock Hills.
• On the more sensitive northern parts of the site development is to be restricted to lower density and a maximum of two storey buildings. In addition, buildings will avoid the 'ridgeline'.

Energy efficiency and renewable energy

The new neighbourhood will have lower carbon emissions than a typical development:

• It will include more energy efficient buildings which together with passive solar design will help to reduce the scheme's energy demands.
• The Crown Estate is also exploring the opportunity to use renewable and low carbon energy on the site, for example an 'energy centre' providing combined heat and power (CHP) within the scheme's local centre.