Alconbury Weald
Client:
Urban&Civic
Area:
1425 acre (577 Ha)
Location:
Cambridgeshire
Type:
Strategic Green Infrastructure
6,500
new homes
700
acres of public open space
13
km of footpaths & cyclepaths
Putting interconnected, and richly biodiverse, green-infrastructure at the heart of strategic development.
Alconbury Weald is located north west of Huntingdon, in Cambridgeshire and benefits from direct linkages to the A14 and the A1(M). BMD have been working for Master Developer Urban&Civic since the establishment of Key Phase 1 at Alconbury Weald. This working relationship stretches back over more than a decade and encompasses conceptual design, planning and on to implementation and supervision.
Our long-term engagement has ensured that the extensive and diverse phases of the development are underpinned by the original vision – transforming a former airfield into an established community through 'Green Runways' and providing a lift-off for nature. The quality of Alconbury Weald's integrated approach to landscape, ecology and placemaking, was recognised at the Planning Awards 2019, for the Best Mixed-Use Development.
Image caption: Gateway pond. © BMD
Landscape-led
Truly landscape-led masterplanning, detailed design and implementation have created a place with a unique identity that exhibits a real sense of permanence and enjoyment of the landscape for all.
At an early stage, BMD established a site-wide Green Infrastructure Strategy that provided the framework for a holistic approach to the natural environment, climate change adaption, biodiversity, open space, sports, play provision and health and wellbeing; reflecting the interconnected nature of these elements to maximise recreational, ecological and environmental value, increasing sustainability.
BMD is a key consultant in the ongoing delivery of Alconbury Weald and is working with Urban&Civic to help ensure this approach is reflected and reinforced in subsequent Design Codes, through the different phases of the development.
Image caption: Vision for Alconbury Weald
Biodiversity
With over 200 acres of new woodland and hedgerows and 500 acres of new species-rich grassland, Alconbury Weald will form part of a joined-up nature recovery network - for the safe movement of both wildlife and people.
Multi-functional green corridors link to create an interconnected mosaic of ecosystems for wildlife species to flourish and to attract species from the surrounding area. This is further enhanced by allotments and orchards encouraging wildlife friendly planting and structures.
Wayfinding with information about the natural assets and heritage trails promotes the history of the ancient woodlands through interpretation boards.
Image caption: Biodiversity plan. © BMD
Play
Landscaped green spaces and finished play spaces available for first residents moving in are an intrinsic part of the development.
As it rolls out and more families make the move to Alconbury Weald these important features make it feel like home from day one.
Quality play areas form a fundamental part of the landscape approach at Alconbury Weald, with nature, health and activity integral to the overall vision for the development.
Each park in Key Phase 1 is inspired by nature or heritage, with a bespoke theme to spark the imagination and create an exciting space for children of all ages to explore.
Image caption: Play at Key Phase 1
Awards
Shortlist
Best Use of Heritage in Placemaking
Winner
Best Mixed Use Development
