News archive

July 2004

Sustainable development for Ashford, UK

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has announced alterations to its Regional Planning Guidance for the South East of England in order to ensure sustainable growth of Ashford in Kent. The revised guidance is as a result of an extensive study by Halcrow's UK development planning team. Ashford's Future Study, undertaken by Halcrow in 2001/2002 ascertained the sustainable capacity of the town to grow, and the conditions, infrastructure and delivery mechanisms to achieve it. The alterations were subject to public examination, at which Halcrow staff supported the case by providing evidence and technical background advice.

The Government accepted Halcrow's findings and incorporated much of the recommendations in the revised guidance. Advice on transport the infrastructure requirements has also been taken on board in the revised Regional Transport Strategy. Andy Spracklen, Halcrow's project manager commented "This is a great result for Halcrow in demonstrating yet again our robust, imaginative and holistic planning advice to high-profile clients such as the Government Office for the South East, SEEDA and English Partnerships. As a consequence of our work and the trust built up with our clients, we are continuing to work with Ashford Borough Council on a Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Master Plan and assisting them in developing their statutory Local Development Framework, involving colleagues from other parts of the business."

A copy of the news released issued by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister can be viewed by clicking here.

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