New Lubbesthorpe secures coveted national award
01/05/2020
The pioneering New Lubbesthorpe development has secured the prestigious Royal Town Planning Institute’s (RTPI) national award for Excellence in Planning to Deliver Homes (projects of over 50 houses).
The judges commented that the development is an excellent example of good planning practice, with Blaby District Council taking a collaborative approach to deliver a project that benefits the local economy and community. The judges admired the partnership working between the Council, development agent Mather Jamie, on behalf of the Drummond Family and Trustees, and other stakeholders such as Homes England.
They also commended the project’s commitment to diversity and sustainability. The land had been in the ownership of the Drummond Family and Trustees for generations. The family had a vision, which they shared with the Council, of a new community which developed into a 20 year project.
This unique approach was motivated by a desire to leave a strong legacy for future generations. Martin Ward, Director at Mather Jamie, explained: “New Lubbesthorpe is fast becoming a thriving community, offering a new place to live, work, learn and visit. We are delighted that the project has won such a well-respected national award. It highlights the innovative approach we have taken to ensure that this is a place where communities and businesses will thrive and where people want to live.”
More than 400 homes are now occupied at the site, with Davidsons, Barratt and David Wilson Homes, and Redrow Homes bringing forward a full range of housing types. In addition to the £15million new motorway bridge, a new primary school has already opened to service the many families living here.
Ultimately the development will deliver up to 4,250 houses, an employment park capable of creating 1,000 jobs, three schools, district and local centres, health facilities and 325 acres of new parklands for all to enjoy.
In addition to being commended by the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government in 2018 for the quality of the development, pace of delivery and creation of a true ‘garden community;, the development has also won: ‘Housing Initiative Award’ at the national, and prestigious Local Government Chronicle Awards 2019 ‘Skills and Apprenticeship Scheme Award’ at the East Midlands Insider Property Awards 2019 ‘Infrastructure Project of the Year’ at the ProCon Leicestershire Awards 2018 (for the delivery of the M1 bridge)