More planning success for CALA Homes and Saunders as residential and sports masterplan in Hitchin is approved by committee.

Saunders has helped secure consent for both phases of the joint venture proposals for a 116 dwelling residential development alongside a new contemporary sports building and 3G football pitch for North Hertfordshire College. The CALA Homes development comprises 4 apartment blocks and a mix of 2, 3, and 4-bed houses set in an enhanced landscape setting, particularly on the development`s edge with Purwell Meadows.

The residential element of the proposals offers new and improved pedestrian links off-site in addition to considered internal cycle routes, connecting to Hitchin`s wider cycle network. Public, play and amenity spaces have also been incorporated within the site layout. Together with visual links to the College, distinctive design of flat blocks, and variety of dwelling types, these well-planted areas will help create a sense of place.

The green-light for the next phase of the scheme not only enables modernised facilities for the higher education college site but also contributes funding for off-site education and community projects. It is proposed that the sports facilities will also serve the wider community during out of college hours.

Work is due to start on site in 2021.