What are the changes from the previously submitted Application?
The following key changes have been made since the previously refused planning applications (refs: 21/00379/FULMAJ and 21/00380/FULMAJ).
How was the ‘Eagle Quarter’ name chosen?
The name is taken from Plenty's Eagle Iron Works, which in the 19th century manufactured lifeboats and marine engines on the site, and which forms an important part in Newbury’s industrial history. The design of Eagle Quarter takes inspiration from the rich Victorian industrial architecture, in its forms, façades and classical references together with elements of the Newbury vernacular.
How will the proposals affect the wider regeneration of the area?
The proposals will deliver a new quarter to Newbury of the highest quality in design terms, with a sustainable mix of uses. The new retail and food & leisure uses will attract people to the town centre and the new residential units and offices will increase the number of people in the town centre, increasing spending.. The more people who are living and working in the town centre, the greater the footfall for the benefit of existing shops and services.
How long will it take to build?
We anticipate that construction will start around 12 months after planning permission is approved, and take around 4 years to complete.
Who is behind the scheme?
The developer is Lochailort, which has extensive experience in delivering complicated urban redevelopments such as the Thames Quarter scheme next to Reading railway station.
What will you to do mitigate the impact on the environment?
We have minimised the use of fossil fuels and instead propose a number of cutting-edge sustainability technologies including a ground-source heat pump system to provide all the development’s heating and hot water requirements. Electric car charging points are proposed, as well as an extension to the existing Car Club with additional vehicles, electric bicycles and potentially electric scooters as well. A new pedestrianised street will offer improved connectivity between the Market Place, Bartholomew Street, the railway station and bus station, the existing multi-storey car park and the Vue Cinema. It will be a vibrant and attractive new route lined with artisan and independent shops, restaurants and bars. Every new flat will have at least one secure cycle parking space, with an onsite repair workshop and additional cycle parking for visitors.
What is multi-family Build to Rent?
How will you ensure or encourage some of the retail space is available for artisan and / or locally owned business?
The flexible-use commercial units have been designed specifically with independent local businesses in mind. Their small sizes mean that they are more accessible and affordable to start-ups and other local businesses than larger premises would be, but at the same time they could easily be combined should more space be required. They will be offered on simple terms and turnover rents, curated to give vibrancy and variety.