Plans for a major new settlement in Wychavon have taken a significant step forward after two outline planning applications were formally validated by Wychavon District Council.
The applications, submitted by Homes England in partnership with Summix, relate to the proposed Wychavon Town development and cover the planned town centre and a southern neighbourhood. Validation means the council can now begin its statutory consultation process, inviting feedback from statutory bodies and local residents.
If approved, the proposals would allow for the delivery of up to 5,500 new homes alongside a purpose-built town centre. The plans also include employment and mixed-use development, new education and healthcare facilities, extensive green and blue infrastructure, and a network of integrated transport and active travel routes designed to reduce car dependency.
The new settlement forms a key part of the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review, which proposes allocating land for up to 10,000 homes in this area to meet long-term housing needs.
Ben Frodsham, Head of Planning and Enabling at Homes England, said: “The submission of outline planning applications for 5,500 new homes, a new town centre and supporting infrastructure is a significant milestone in the delivery of Wychavon Town. It represents many years of collaboration with our partners Summix, the local councils, and Worcestershire County Council. This is an important step towards delivering a high-quality new settlement that will help meet housing needs over the next 40 years”.
Peter Bateman, Planning Director at Summix, added: “These two outline applications represent a pivotal moment in moving from plan- making to delivery. Together they establish a comprehensive framework for a new settlement at Worcestershire Parkway, now known as Wychavon Town, and demonstrate our long-term commitment, alongside Homes England, to delivering a sustainable, economically productive and well-connected new community”.
Homes England and Summix said they will continue to work closely with Wychavon District Council, Worcestershire County Council and other key stakeholders as the applications are assessed. Public consultation will play a central role in shaping the next stage of the proposals before a decision is made by the council.