Developer begins work clearing former industrial site to make way for housing

Artist's impression of plans to build 74 homes on Edison Bell Way (Image: Archant)

The site, between Edison Bell Way and Ferrars Road, was given planning permission in 2014, but developers, Aspen Build, only started work late last month.

Workmen from the Ipswich-based company have started clearing the site in order to begin the development of 74 new homes.

According to plans lodged by the firm, the development will be a mixture of 29 houses and 45 one, two and three-bedroom flats.

“We believe the development of this derelict industrial site has the potential to establish a strong sense of place, using streetscapes and buildings to create an attractive and comfortable place to live.

The design optimises the potential of the site to accommodate 74 units and sustain an appropriate mix of dwelling types,” the plans state.

“The layout creates a safe and accessible environment that is visually attractive as a result of good architecture and appropriate landscaping. The development will create new connections that are well lit, direct, attractive and easy to navigate.”

Along with houses, there are also plans for two areas of public open space, one towards Ermine Street and the other an extension of an already existing pedestrianand cycle route.

As part of the public spaces Aspen Build proposes to create wildlife habitats, and hopes to encourage community involvement through Huntingdon in Bloom.

“In addition the development provides improved access for residents in the local area and enhances the local environment with the addition of landscaped public open space in a location adjacent to the town centre,” the planning application added.

The company has earmarked one parking space per house or flat, and a further space per six properties for visitors. The scheme is likely to be complete, according to the developer, by summer 2019.