Urban extension and leisure plans set for green light

A major urban extension on the outskirts of Swindon, including more than 2,000 new homes, is set to get the go-ahead from councillors next week (14 November 2017). Plans for a new leisure development featuring an indoor ski slope and cinema are also recommended for approval.The application for the first phase of the Swindon New Eastern Village scheme from Hallam Land Management, Hannick Homes & Developments and Taylor Wimpey, covering a site east of Swindon and north of A420, was originally submitted in 2013.It proposes the development of a new urban extension including up to 2,380 houses, of which 23 per cent will be affordable; a 16,100 sq ft mixed-use local centre for retail and 10,750 sq ft of employment land.Two new primary schools will also be developed, alongside sports facilities, play areas, public open space and new infrastructure.The application will go before Swindon Borough Council’s planning committee on Tuesday with a recommendation that planning permission is granted. This is subject to the signing of a legal agreement to secure planning obligations, including financial contributions of £58.9m.A report from the planning officer said the scheme support the council’s “housing and economic requirements for growth” and that measures are included that will “satisfactorily mitigate the overall impacts of the development”.The council will also consider an application Seven Capital to develop new leisure facilities at Swindon’s North Star Site, which also includes the Oasis Leisure Centre.The proposals for the £270m, one million sq ft scheme include an indoor ski centre, cinema and hotel, along with new bars and restaurants.The scheme could also potentially include indoor crazy golf, laser tag and a skate park. If planning permission is granted the new facilities could open by 2021.Councillors are also recommended to approve this application at the meeting, subject to completion of a Section 106 agreement.The report said the development is “acceptable in principle” and “will not lead to any harm to: the vitality and viability of the town centre, the character of the area, residential amenity and the highway network”.Seven Capital was appointed by the council to bring forward the scheme after plans stalled with a previous developer.Important remedial works to the existing Oasis Leisure Centre have already begun, including new mechanical plant has now been installed which will reduce the heat and humidity at the swimming pool.