Fenny Stratford

After many years of production, the Reckett & Coleman factory in Fenny Stratford closed due to rationalization of its business.  The site has remained vacant for several years and redevelopment has been thwarted by the complex legal issues of several ownerships and the extensive land contamination. 

Hester Architects worked closely with Milton Keynes Borough Council’s planning officers in developing the design to produce a sympathetic scheme that meets all the aspirations of the local planning policy and national guidelines. The existing site forms part of the eastern boundary of the village and is set between the Grand Union Canal and the river Ouzel

The Scheme

This residential Scheme comprises of 286 residential apartments and houses with a mixture of dwelling sizes provided, including family houses, duplex flats and one and two bedroom apartments. There is substantial proportion of affordable housing to ensure a balanced tenure. The scheme has been carefully designed to respect its setting and to create a network of interesting urban spaces with good pedestrian movement through the site.  The sustainable location and the introduction of a bus stop and cycle storage within the scheme will encourage alternative transport choices.  Overall, the environment within the scheme maximizes the benefit of the site’s unique setting to create an attractive living environment. Hester Architects gained Full Planning Approval at the first attempt.