London Planning Consultancy Team Secures Unanimous Planning Approval for Chippenham Riverside Development

Lambert Smith Hampton’s London Planning Consultancy Team have successfully secured resolution to grant planning permission on behalf of Acorn Property Group, for the redevelopment of Emery Gate Shopping Centre in the centre of Chippenham, Wiltshire.

Following over two years of collaboration with key stakeholders at Wiltshire Council, the proposals received a unanimous vote in support from members on Wiltshire’s Strategic Development Committee, testament to the architectural, technical and planning input provided by the project team.

In accordance with Wiltshire Council’s long-term vision for the site, the proposals will transform, rejuvenate and diversify the shopping centre site, delivering significant public benefits such as:

• 225 high-quality, homes;
• c. 4,000sqm of flexible commercial and community floorspace, future-proofing the vitality of the town centre;
• Redevelopment of a brownfield site in a highly sustainable location;
• Significant landscaping and biodiversity enhancements;
• Improved pedestrian connectivity through the town, connecting the High Street and the River Avon; and
• Low-carbon, sustainable and energy-efficient design.

Robert Reeds, Director in the London Planning Consultancy Team continues:

“This decision reflects a clear and well-balanced planning judgement, addressing the long-recognised need to regenerate this part of Chippenham town centre. It is encouraging to see the Council recognise the importance of flexible, mixed-use development in supporting the long-term vitality of town centre, and a pleasure to have supported the project through a positive and collaborative planning process.”

Dane Cummings, Head of Commercial Property, and Caroline Wall, Project Manager at Acorn Property Group continued:

“We have worked closely with Rob Reeds and Lauren Stoves at Lambert Smith Hampton for over three years on the Emery Gate regeneration project. Their strategic planning advice, collaborative approach and detailed understanding of policy and place were critical in achieving this positive planning outcome. The granting of planning permission represents a major milestone for Chippenham town centre, and we are delighted with the result.”