New park ‘space’ is given approval

The project appraisal for the Chineham Lane Local Park, which will be the open space provided as part of phase one of the Merton Rise development, has been approved by Hampshire County Council leader Councillor Ken Thornber.

The area, to be funded through developers' contributions, will include a kickabout area and a secure equipped play area themed around space.

The park will be served by a pedestrian and cycle link, which will also act as a safe route to the new school currently being built on the site to replace John Hunt of Everest Community School.

Merton Rise is an area of land situated between the A340 Aldermaston Road and Chineham Lane. It is owned by the county and outline planning permission has been granted to build up to 950 homes, a new school and a neighbourhood centre, while providing employment opportunities and open spaces.

Cllr Thornber said: "Hampshire County Council is putting the needs of people first with its Merton Rise development in Basingstoke by making sure community facilities are in place before people move in and not as an after thought.

"The new secondary school to serve Merton Rise is due for completion in autumn 2007 and I have now approved the project proposals for the Chineham Lane Local Park that will provide children living on phase one of the new development with somewhere to play and with a safe route to school."

Merton Rise will be sold in five phases over the next few years. These have been planned to ensure an acceptable mix of housing, employment and retail facilities throughout the building process. It also allows the release of development sites to be synchronised with the installation of roads, utilities and other services.

Phase one, consisting of 160 homes and the local park, is currently under offer and bids are now being invited for phase two, which includes residential and commercial units, a supermarket, nursery, medical centre and affordable housing.