Where Should the New Houses Go

Where should the new houses go?

You are part of Tunbridge Wells Council in the UK. The local council is responsible for housing; it is your job to decide on the best location for the new housing. 2 potential sites have been identified, one greenfield and one brownfield.

In total, Kent Council has proposed nearly 20 000 new home to accommodate the growing population. 300 of these are to be built in Tunbridge Wells.

Once you have decided on a site you need to write a 500 word report to be delivered to the head of housing development stating why you have chosen that particular site.

Things to consider

Cost of land

Close to transport networks

Distance from town

Sale value of homes

Tip – list the good and bad points for each site – use your sheet to help you...

Site A – The Kent and Sussex Hospital Site (Brownfield)

Description

This former hospital site is 12 acres in size and is located in the town itself. It is approximately 1km from the railway station and 2km from the town centre.

The site has space for 90 homes and 100 apartments. There is limited space for parking at the site and the road infrastructure is congested with no space for expansion. Local people are concerned about the growing pressure on the transport network.

There is a need for decontamination of the site to remove the asbestos from the materials of the hospital building.

Cost of land £15 Million

Site B – Knights Park. Greenbelt

Description

This 220 acre greenfield site has been proposed for the site of housing development.

The site is close to an out of town retail park including a cinema, supermarket and major retailers. The newly opened Pembury hospital is situated 1km from the site. The location is 5km from Tunbridge Wells town centre. This site is undeveloped and is a wildlife habitat for a variety of species.

New road infrastructure would need to be developed to allow access by residents.

However the homes must be built for first time buyers and must be affordable (semi- detatched), electric and gas supplies will need to be installed.

Cost of land £9 Million