Bracknell

Residents' views are being encouraged to suggest how a new Bracknell community at Amen Corner might be developed in the future.

The Bracknell site, which is on the outskirts of Binfield and next to the A329 Berkshire Way, has been identified as a site for a new mixed use community to include housing, a new primary school, recreation and employment.

Bracknell Residents' views will contribute to an action plan for the site. The plan will include the number of homes, the amount of employment, what shops and other services might be necessary - for example a primary school - and the look and style of the new development.

Amen Corner was earmarked as an area for future development in the council’s core strategy - a crucial part of the Local Development Framework (LDF). This is a wide-ranging set of planning documents which cover development issues in Bracknell Forest until 2026 and will replace the Bracknell Forest Local Plan. The Amen Corner area action plan will be part of the LDF.

The core strategy said the site could contain around 725 new homes, provide opportunities for employment as well as maintaining a countryside gap between Binfield and Wokingham.

There will be a consultation on the draft action plan next year, before a public examination in 2009. It is hoped it can be formally adopted by the Council in 2010.

Cllr Mrs Mary Ballin, Executive Member for Bracknell Planning and Transportation, said: We would like to create a sustainable and viable community at Amen Corner, with the necessary services and infrastructure.

”Residents views are crucial in deciding how this new community can become a reality.”

The consultation information will be sent to landowners, residents and people who have responded to an earlier consultation. It is will also be available at Council offices, Binfield library, Binfield Parish Council and on the Council’s website at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ldf. For more details call 01344 352000.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council