Design Principles

A Holistic Approach

A set of design principles describe the key steps in creating a considered proposal for the site.

Sense of Arrival

The main access for all methods of travel sits adjacent to Downs Farm to the east of the site. A secondary access sits to the north for pedestrians, cyclists, and emergency access.

Key Routes

The key route through the site connects the two entrance points, with horizontal connections coming off the main spine road. The route features a sequence of spaces along the journey and opens out to neighbourhoods to the east and west.

Long views to the south and of Epsom College have been identified as important for planning purposes and integrated into the masterplan.

The Masterplan

Greenspaces

The masterplan includes a range of green corridors, with minimal vehicular access, taking inspiration from nearby green streets such as ‘The Green’. A larger public open space will be located near the entrance in the centre of the site, with views of Epsom College.

Development Parcels

Conclusions from the Green Belt Appraisal and Grey Belt Assessment provide the principal that development to the north and centre of the site would form a logical infill of existing areas of built form, and would not be perceived as sprawl. Streets are arranged to the east and west of the main route running through the site, benefiting from green corridors interspersed between to maximise access to the landscape for all homes.

For homes

  • Up to 500 high quality new homes
  • A mix of 1,2,3,4 and 5 bedroom homes
  • 50% of the homes will meet the Council’s affordable housing policy
  • The affordable homes will include a mix of affordable rent and shared ownership

For sustainability

  • Retaining and improving the natural environment, trees, hedgerows and habitats
  • Meeting the requirement to provide a 10% biodiversity net gain across the site
  • Sustainable Drainage Strategy ensuring that surface water is properly managed
  • The use of sustainable construction techniques with a fabric first approach
  • The use of renewable energy will see the homes benefit from air source heat
    pumps and solar panels

For community

  • Creation of new pedestrian and cycling routes,
  • Improve existing connections between Epsom and Banstead
  • Significant onsite strategic public open spaces
  • Local Equipped Areas of Play
  • Potential Sport Pitch Provision or SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) school  provision