A significant investment is being made into the protection and enhancement of Blackburn’s natural habitats over the next three years, as part of a £793,000 contribution by five-star housebuilder, Bovis Homes.
Bovis Homes’ section 106 agreement for the Sunnybower Meadow development on Whalley Old Road, will include a commitment of over £200,000 in biodiversity net gains to conserve the local wildlife.
Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is a new mandatory planning requirement for new developments as a way to create and improve local natural habitats. Developers must deliver a BNG of 10%, with the aim of providing better quality environments than previously existed.
Bovis Homes’ BNG contribution will help to increase the biodiversity in and around the development by improving existing habitats and providing new ones through landscaping and planting schemes, as well as providing wildlife-friendly features.
Over the next three years, Bovis Homes, part of Vistry Group, will also be contributing to improvements to the highways network and sustainable transport options. The housebuilder’s funding will go towards the local bus services, new cycle storage facilities at nearby train stations, as well as planned works to help traffic flow in the area for current and new residents.
Sales at Sunnybower Meadow launched in March for 132 new homes being built for open market sale. Prices start from £267,000 for a three-bedroom semi-detached home. An additional 33 homes will also be available through affordable housing partner, Together Housing as shared ownership properties.
Gemma Hardy, Managing Director, Vistry Merseyside and Cheshire West, commented: “Biodiversity net gain is a new requirement for section 106 agreements but one we have always considered important and are keen to invest in. When we create a new development, we’re not just building homes, we’re creating a new community that fits within and enhances the local environment. Ensuring there are plenty of natural habitats for wildlife to grow and thrive is a key part of this.
“Together with our contributions towards the highways and transport networks, we hope Sunnybower Meadow will have a positive impact on both residents who choose to live here and the wider Blackburn area.”
To find out more about the new homes at Sunnybower Meadow, call 01254 641 633 or visit:
