Supporting the development of an environmentally responsible, sustainable, innovative, and distinctive new community

Gilston Village 7 - Design Code and Multidisciplinary Services

Forming the western gateway to the Gilston Area, Gilston Village 7 will create a new settlement that celebrates the local heritage and landscape drawing from the character of Hertfordshire villages and the wider vision for Harlow and Gilston Garden Town (HGGT). Taylor Wimpey engaged our masterplanning, landscape, flood risk, drainage, water management, and sustainability teams to help deliver this new community.

We developed the initial outline proposals to create an extensive placemaking design code and co-led the Strategic Landscape Masterplan for the wider Gilston Town, using a holistic approach for Village 7 and the wider Gilston Area. Additionally, we provided input on detailed reserved matters, landscape, and Water Framework Directive (WFD) assessment for the first phase of development and assisted in the extensive engagement strategy underpinning proposals. We also initially provided support to the previous landowner to gain outline planning approval on flood risk and drainage, Phase 1 ground conditions, waste, and utilities.

Positioned to become one of the fastest-growing areas in the UK, HGGT will encourage a shift towards sustainable travel through the provision of an attractive sustainable transport corridor (STC), which will run through the other six villages. It will also harness opportunities for sustainability through the creation of a community heat hub, to provide a net zero carbon ready heat network, and enhance ecological habitats through a network of attractive multifunctional open spaces and sustainable drainage solutions.

When complete, Gilston Village 7 will provide up to 1,500 new homes, a primary school and nursery, commercial floorspace, and a village centre.