The Field of Dreams
Date: 2nd August 2006
A groundbreaking scheme to build good quality, well-designed and environmentally sustainable low-cost houses in a Suffolk village received the go-ahead today.
Councillors on Mid-Suffolks Planning Committee voted to back The Field of Dreams project in Elmswell, near Bury St. Edmunds, which will see 23 properties (13 for rent and 10 for shared ownership) built on a 0.5 hectare piece of land.
The scheme is a partnership between the Suffolk Preservation Society, the East of England Development Agency, Orwell Housing Association, Mid Suffolk District and Elmswell Parish Councils and the Royal Institute of British Architects. The designers are Riches Hawley Mikhail Architects.
The scheme is a first for many reasons:
1.Local residents were directly involved in evaluating the various design entries through a series of design exhibitions and not just as consultees once
2.Good design, including the need to provide for the changing needs of families and some work-life accommodation, was at the core of the process and not just as an after-thought
3.Energy efficiency in the choice of building materials and facilities to both generate energy and reduce energy loss was another key element central to the project
Richard Ward, director of the Suffolk Preservation Society said "The Society has always believed that low-cost housing can also mean high-quality housing. It is great news that this scheme, involving so many dedicated partners, will now be starting shortly and we will be using it as an example to push for similar developments in both rural and town locations across the county".
Work is due to commence on The Field of Dreams scheme in late summer. ENDS
Contact: Paul Simon on (01473) 829171 or 0776 4195331
About the Suffolk Preservation Society a voice for Suffolks past and future
The Suffolk Preservation Society was founded in 1929 to safeguard the buildings and landscapes of Suffolk. But for some time it has widened its focus and among other important issues has taken a lead in campaigning for more and better quality affordable homes in order to ensure balanced and sustainable communities for the future.
The Societys recent initiatives have included:
Successful lobbying to improve some aspects of the Cattle Market Scheme in Bury St. Edmunds
Outreach work on building design with local school pupils
Providing workshops on how the planning system works for parish councils and amenity societies
The annual Alfred Williams Prize to encourage first rate modern architecture
The Society has a growing membership of 2,000, drawn from all parts of the county and beyond and from people of all walks of life.