PROJECTS > COLTISHALL ECO -TOWN, NORFOLK
 


RAF Coltishall is a former air base located approximately 14 km north of Norwich. The site has been decommissioned and currently stands empty, its future uncertain.  It is rare that a brownfield site of this size comes to the market and this represents an opportunity of regional if not national significance. 

The site has the potential to provide numerous benefits to the local community and could make a serious contribution to Norfolk’s biodiversity and emmissions targets. There is currently no development brief for the site and although various options have been put forward we believe that none take full advantage of the site’s potential.

The vision aims to provide a lasting legacy for Norfolk which benefits existing residents and which future generations can be proud of. An innovative eco settlement which uses cutting edge technology to conserve resources and manage the environment . In place of piecemeal or opportunistic development we see a balanced and sustainable community providing jobs, homes and education.

 

A new Norfolk Broad providing habitats for a wide range of local animal and plant species. Dedicated employment floorspace providing a range of skilled and unskilled work. In short, a place where its easy for residents to live happy and healthy lifestyles, and where looking after the environment is a pleasure not a chore.

Key principles of the vision

  • An exemplar eco settlement with zero carbon footprint
  • Economically and socially sustainable
  • Renewable energy solutions including CHP and wind power
  • Designed to maximise solar energy
  • Sustainable water management systems built in
  • Up to 5000 new eco homes with a mix of sizes, types and tenures
  • Over 100 hectares of wetlands and open space
  • Business and technology park

 

  

Due to the size of the site, and it’s location at the westernmost gateway to the Broads, RAF Coltishall offers the opportunity to create an exemplar place to live, work and relax. Our vision combines the best of the region’s cultural and ecological heritage with cutting edge technology, the best of innovative housing design and enlightened place making techniques to create a new and exciting settlement where people and nature coexist in harmony. This style of redevelopment is a current and innovative approach to regeneration.

The masterplan encapsulates the following ideas:

  • Mix of housing, employment, retail, open spaces and leisure in close proximity
  • Innovative Eco House types and modern methods of construction
  • A connected network of safe, accessible streets with dedicated pedestrian and cycle routes
  • A mixed use high street and waterfront providing local shopping and leisure opportunities
  • 3 new primary schools, adult training opportunities, multi purpose community facilities
  • Built heritage and natural assets retained and incorporated
  • Hotel and Douglas Bader Memorial Museum
  • A wide range of employment opportunities