Fernleigh Farm

The project is a unique opportunity when a client is looking at a truly holistic approach, not simply low energy but a sustainable proposal across the board. We have been asked to help the client develop a concept that looks at employment, housing, and amenity. By looking at three elements we are investigating what could potentially be considered a live work proposal but with a far more holistic approach. The three elements seek to target and improve on energy efficiency, quality of environment and respond directly to their context. The challenge of this approach is that it is a multi-site scheme, three sites that are physically separated but linked by a passionate client vision - it is not a proposal that fits a typical planning process.

Our approach was to identify how the three proposals should be looked at to promote an overall sustainable development that is able support itself as well as be low energy and low carbon. By adding to the local housing provision this would provide a basis for people to live and work locally. The work element being provided by the second site a Research & Development proposal utilising its proximity to Cambridge as a key Science and Research hub. Having provided housing and employment the third site completes the circle by providing space, amenity, and a superb opportunity for biodiversity. BNG being achieved by incorporating new footpaths, significant planting of hedgerows and trees which will attract and encourage wildlife. Therefore, the proposal offers new accommodation, new employment and high quality amenity which will benefit the local population significantly.