Corby Eurohub Extension - Stanion Properties Ltd
Objectives
 |
 |
 |
 |
click the images to enlarge |
|
Lockhart Garratt was appointed by Stanion Properties Ltd to assist with the development issues associated with the proposed clearance of some 70ha (150ac) of existing woodland.
The project encompassed the development of a 3.5 million sq ft rail served distribution centre, creating 3500 new jobs. The site was located within mature woodland planted on a restored ironstone quarry that was then a designated County Wildlife Site within Corby. There were significant issues with loss of woodland habitats and disruption to protected species. This project came forward as a high profile 'pioneer' in the newly created Corby Urban Regeneration Area and required extensive engagement with emerging green infrastructure framework and policy.
Outcomes
Lockhart Garratt was able to assist the development planning team with the detailed proposals and mitigation package, and in January 2006 the application was presented to the planning committee with support from the environmental consultees. This decision was then endorsed by Government Office within five weeks.
A key factor in achieving this result was close and meaningful engagement with all the environmental stakeholders from day one.
Lockhart Garratt was able to facilitate and lead this engagement through long term trusted relationships with key stakeholder organisations e.g. Forestry Commission, English Nature (now Natural England) and the Wildlife Trust.
Lockhart Garratt was retained to project manage the site clearance and ecological works. We have also secured land to facilitate the planting of replacement woodland and are responsible for the delivery of this together with the management of the on-site tree and woodland retentions.
During 2007-08 Lockhart Garratt organised the discharge of all pre-development woodland and biodiversity related conditions of planning, reserved matters and Section 106 obligations, so that the site is now cleared and ready for the commencement of development.
Future
Ahead of development Lockhart Garratt is responsible for monitoring the site's woodland and ecological condition and is cost effectively managing related issues to allow construction to commence at a time that best suits the client.
Testimonial
"ProLogis Developments Ltd became the joint owner of Stanion Lane Plantation in Corby at the beginning of 2007. Lockhart Garratt was already involved in the project, having assisted with the forestry elements of the planning aplications for the site and organised the clearance of the main development footprint. Stanion Lane Plantation is a challenging site that has thrown up a number of environmental issues. On taking control of the project, I quickly found Lockhart Garratt to have an in-depth understanding of their forestry brief as well as being able to assist me with the wider environmental context. This insight and proactive approach led to Lockhart Garratt being included within our inner design team, with the company's responsibilties widened to include the ecology brief and wide ranging assistance to our planning consultants, architects, engineers, landscape architects and legal team on all matters relating to the environmental dimension of the project. Lockhart Garratt was also trusted with leading related discussions with the Local Planning Authority and local community engagement to ensure effective external communication regarding potentially sensitive matters. Lockhart Garratt is highly commited and has demonstrated that they are professionally able to serve this project at both strategic and technical levels. Lockhart Garratt's advice has credibility with us, they are reliable and we would wish to use them on similar projects.
Chris Lewis - First Vice President Infrastructure UK, ProLogis Developments Ltd
[BACK] [For more information on this case study, please contact John Lockhart FRICS, CEnv]
