Heritage and community
Creating a strong sense of place
Ermine Fields has been designed to feel like a natural extension of the existing community. The layout, buildings and green spaces all take inspiration from the area’s history, landscape and character. From views of local landmarks to spaces that bring people together, the development aims to create a strong sense of place – where heritage is respected and the community can thrive.
As this is an outline planning application, details like the appearance of buildings, and layout specifics will be developed later. However, the aim is to reflect the character of the local area as plans progress.
Respecting local history
Community square reflecting historic character
Ermine Fields has been designed to reflect the historic character of South Kesteven. A central green corridor runs through the site, giving clear views of the Church of St Paul and St Peter in Great Casterton. This helps connect the new homes to the local landscape and makes the church a visible landmark. The northern boundary of the site will be used for new parkland which will provide a buffer between the proposed development and the heritage assets associated with Great Casterton.
Buildings will use traditional materials and styles, like those found in nearby Stamford and surrounding villages, including Great Casterton. At the centre of the site will be a community square, inspired by local market squares and their architecture.
Local character
Shaping our design
This development has been designed to reinforce the identify and character of nearby towns like Stamford and villages such as Great Casterton. The photos below show the building styles, street layouts and village features that inspired the design – from stone walls and courtyards to market squares and town meadows. The detailed proposals will follow the grant of outline planning permission, but the intention is for the new homes will feel like a natural part of the local area.
New open space
Strengthening community identity
The development will be designed to encourage walking and cycling. It will include new open space for people to relax or take part in community activities.
Existing public footpaths will be retained and improved wherever possible, with new paths added to create a clear and easy-to-follow network of streets and spaces. These paths will naturally connect into the existing park and play area to the south, linking Ermine Fields directly to the existing community in Stamford.
A new natural-style parkland will be created to the north of the site. This will help keep a clear separation from Great Casterton and give both current and future residents a peaceful green space to enjoy – supporting community wellbeing and helping people feel part of the wider area.
