Plans for more homes near Bracknell set for approval

The developer Belgrave Homes has a project to build 12 homes on a field west of Maize Lane.

The field is located between Bracknell and the village of Warfield, and is one of the last remaining places which separate the two settlements.

The project involves building eight detached and four semi-detached homes on the field immediately south of Warfield Street, which has drawn the ire of some neighbours and Warfield Parish Council.

The development would provide seven four-bedroom and five three-bedroom homes, with 11 of the homes having two parking spaces and one having three spaces. Three spaces would also be reserved for visitors. 

A four-bed house and two three-bedroom homes would be designated affordable.

The site layout for the project to build 12 homes west of Maize Lane, at a site situated between Bracknell and Warfield. (Image: Spires Architects)

The project is due to be decided at a Bracknell Forest Council planning committee meeting, as eight objections have been received.

Neighbours have argued the plan fails to provide a 'buffer' between homes in Warfield Street and the new development.

Also, concerns have been raised about flooding and increased water pressure in the area.

In a joint letter, neighbours said: "There is a grave issue with water runoff from Maize Lane into Warfield Street, with water flowing across the road toward its junction with Jigs Lane North.

"In below freezing weather conditions during the winter of 2022/23, this surface water froze, causing a serious road traffic hazard." 

The neighbours argued that the new housing will exacerbate flooding problems.

Furthermore, Warfield Parish Council's planning & transport committee has recommended the project be refused, arguing the site layout is cramped, and not enough information for drainage has been provided.

However, planning officer Jessica Taylor judged that the project is acceptable and complies with the council's policies. 

She wrote: "The proposal responds appropriately to the design objectives for the character area covering this site.

"Access and parking arrangements are considered acceptable.

"The layout has been informed by drainage information that is in general accordance with the approved drainage strategy."

The plan has been recommended for approval subject to conditions and a section 106 legal agreement being achieved. 

The project forms part of the wider development for around 300 homes that bridge the gap between Warfield and Bracknell that was approved on outline in November 2020. 

Plans for the site in question have been revised down from the 12 three-bed and five four-bed homes initially proposed to the seven four-bedroom and five three-bedroom homes that are due to be decided on. 

The planning meeting will take place on Thursday, November 7. 

You can view documents for the 12 homes project by typing reference 22/00787/REM into the council's planning portal.