FAQs

Your questions answered

About Ermine Fields

Where is the site located?

The site is located to the west of Old Great North Road, to the north-west of Stamford in Lincolnshire.

Why has this site been chosen for development?

The site was chosen because Stamford is a large market town with good services and infrastructure, making it a suitable location for residential growth according to the local plan adopted in 2020. Additionally, there’s an urgent need for new housing in the South Kesteven area to meet a current shortfall. The site itself was identified as appropriate for development in a 2015 study due to its good transport links, landscape, and heritage considerations. The development is also being designed to a high standard, considering Stamford’s historic environment.

For more details, head to the Proposals page.

About the proposals

What are your proposals?

The proposals include up to 250 high-quality homes, designed to meet local housing needs while integrating significant green infrastructure and sustainability measures. The development will provide a mix of housing types, including affordable homes, ensuring that first-time buyers, families, and older residents all have access to suitable housing options. A community hub is also proposed as part of the project.

What infrastructure improvements will be provided?

We recognise the importance of ensuring that new development is supported by appropriate infrastructure. As part of the planning process, we will be working closely with South Kesteven District Council, Rutland County Council and Lincolnshire County Council to assess where investment is needed. Potential contributions may include:

  • Highways improvements to support the local road network.
  • Enhancements to walking and cycling routes to encourage sustainable travel.
  • Investment in education, healthcare, and local services to support both existing and new residents.
  • Upgrades to utility infrastructure, such as water, drainage and energy networks, to ensure the site is well-served.

How are infrastructure improvements implemented?

Before applying for planning permission, we assess local services like roads, schools and healthcare. We then work with the council and service providers to agree what improvements are needed. If the development is approved, funding for these improvements is secured through legal agreements and delivered as the project progresses.

Will there be affordable housing?

Yes. Affordable homes will be included within the plans in line with South Kesteven District Council’s policy, which requires 30% of new housing to be affordable. These homes will help meet local need by providing more accessible housing options. The exact type and mix of affordable homes will be agreed in consultation with the council as the plans progress.

How will you manage the impact on traffic?

A full transport assessment will be undertaken as part of the planning process to assess potential impacts on local roads and identify appropriate mitigation measures. The site is well connected to the existing road network, and we are also exploring opportunities to enhance sustainable transport options, such as walking and cycling routes.

Where will the houses be accessed from?

Ashberry Strategic Land and their highways experts will be working in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council and Rutland County Council to agree a plan for highways that provides safe and suitable access points to the site.

What will be done to protect local wildlife and green spaces?

We are committed to delivering a development that respects and enhances the natural environment. The proposals will include:

  • Retaining and protecting existing habitats wherever possible.
  • A biodiversity net gain (BNG) strategy, ensuring that more wildlife-friendly habitats are created than currently exist on the site.
  • New green spaces and landscaping to improve the local environment.
  • Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) to manage surface water and reduce flood risk.

What opportunities do the community have to influence the proposals?

We are committed to open and transparent engagement with the local community. There will be multiple opportunities for residents and stakeholders to provide feedback throughout the consultation process. This includes:

  • A public consultation event where residents can view the proposals and speak with the project team.
  • A dedicated project website, providing information and opportunities to submit comments.
  • Direct engagement with local groups and stakeholders to gather input on key aspects of the development.
  • Formal consultation carried out by the Local Planning Authority (LPA) as part of the planning process

What are the timescales for the proposals?

The project is still in its early stages, with a planning application expected to be submitted towards the end of 2025. Before this, public and stakeholder engagement will be carried out and the feedback reviewed and considered to establish how it can be used to shape the final plans.

How long will construction take?

The construction timeline will depend on the final approved plans and will depend on South Kesteven District Council and Rutland County Council’s timescales for determination, before construction can commence. Development is likely to take place over a number of years and further information will be available at each stage of the process.

What benefits will this development bring to the local community?

The proposals will deliver a range of economic, social, and environmental benefits, including:

  • High-quality new homes, including affordable housing to meet local needs.
  • The provision of a new community hub.
  • Investment in local infrastructure, including transport, education and healthcare.
  • Biodiversity and green space improvements, ensuring a well-designed and sustainable development.

About Ashberry Strategic Land

Who is Ashberry Strategic Land?

Ashberry Strategic Land is a specialist division of the respected Bellway Homes Limited, created to deliver sustainably-located sites for much-needed new homes. As part of a five-star rated homebuilder, Ashberry Strategic Land have a strong track record of securing planning permissions and a commitment to creating well-designed masterplans that benefit the existing community. Their goal is to ensure a positive and lasting legacy for communities and the wider area.

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