'Despair' at new developments in Hampshire

Many developers seem to think that the solution to all our problems are solved by piling as many houses in to as small a space as possible as quickly as possible.

The tragedy is that it is so often a wasted and lost opportunity to link new development to a more sustainable future.

Volume house builders seem to have one concept of growth-maximum return, minimum effort.

But there is good news out there. In the last few days I visited a site near Romsey.

Previously known as World of Water this five-acre site maybe about to go through something of a transformation.

READ: Romsey residents are invited to ‘nature campus’ event this week >>> 

Plans for the nature based campus

Architects, Wildlife Trust, Council and Developers are working together to create something that could entirely transform our perception of green development.

Planning permission has yet to be given and I am wary to say too much too soon-but I really get excited by creativity, where new builds take in to account the need for creating space for nature and people.

The overall impression is a new, low density retail/commerce space that if done right will add nature value to the existing site and provide an amazing bridge to the Wildlife Trust reserve at Fishlake Meadows.

My challenge to all of you, is what is the type of space you want to live in over the next years?

Do you want to live in a place where trees and wildflowers are growing not only nearby but possibly on the rooves and walls of some of the buildings?

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Where there’s food growing, nest boxes, water features, electric car ports, quiet green spaces and fruit picking?

Where the energy demand is driven by sustainable solar, water, ground source heat and compost schemes?

The nature based campus could cost £10m

Or would you prefer to be in high density, red brick, over heated, cheaply made, piled in ugly mega developments?

If Hampshire County Council and the Borough Councils choose to, we could lead the way in being a green homes, green retail and green energy provider.

Hampshire could become carbon neutral-even carbon negative as we strive to plant more native trees and create more and more space for nature and people to enjoy.

As the World of Water site develops in the months ahead, my hope is that will become a model of what creativity and imagination can achieve.

I would also encourage the same councils to think long and hard about the post corona town centre experience.

In Romsey the main street has been closed off to traffic to provide a better shopping experience.

READ: Poll reveals opinions on a Romsey road being temporarily shut >>> 

The Hundred, Romsey, is now closed

Pollution levels have fallen; people are enjoying the safety and the space….. and yet as with volume house building there are those who really dislike the change.

To go greener, means some compromise. In the case of housebuilders it means lower volume, slightly reduced profit and far more creativity.

In the case of town centres, it means more pedestrianisation, more green infrastructure investment and access only systems for local residents and delivery drivers (via automated key and post systems).

Let’s grasp the opportunity through this pandemic period to transform our housing and retail experiences and bring hope and creativity into the heart of our key towns and cities.