Buckinghamshire Council has approved plans for a new 250-acre nature reserve in Aylesbury.
Kingsbrook Meadows, which is located to the east of the Kingsbrook residential development, is being brought forward by a partnership between Barratt David Wilson Homes, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), and Buckinghamshire Council.
The nature reserve, which will feature wetlands, meadows, pools, woodlands, walking trails, gardens and a wild play area, will open in three phases.
The final phase, which is due for completion in 2028, will culminate in the opening of a visitor centre, café and shop. The RSPB will manage the site once complete.
Peter Strachan, cabinet member for planning at Buckinghamshire Council, said: “Buckinghamshire is a beautiful, nature rich county, and it’s important we protect it as best we can whilst also doing our bit to meet the government’s new housing targets. Kingsbrook Meadows is a great example of how by working together, collaboratively with like-minded strategic partners, sustainable development can be achieved.”
Carl Jackson, cabinet member for environment at Buckinghamshire Council, added: “Kingsbrook Meadows will provide a sanctuary to those who enjoy the natural environment, providing a great place to walk, exercise, explore and walk the dog. This site has been designed to benefit residents and visitors; while protecting local wildlife and will be a destination location that Buckinghamshire can be proud of.”
Martin Randall, operations director at RSPB, said: “We’re delighted to have reached this important milestone in the creation of an exciting new nature inspired visitor destination which will be a welcoming place for all. Nature is for everyone, and we want this ethos to be at the heart of Kingsbrook Meadows, with all the social, health and wellbeing benefits that brings. We are very much looking forward to work getting underway in the coming months and sharing more information about the exciting developments. As work progresses, there’ll be plenty of opportunities for people to get involved and find out more along the way.”
Jo Alden, project director at Barratt David Wilson North Thames, added: “Approval for Kingsbrook Meadows is fantastic news for both residents at Kingsbrook, and the wider community and we are excited to start work. This opportunity shows the power of partnership and has only become a reality because Barratt David Wilson, Buckinghamshire Council and the RSPB all share the same values. Once again, we are proving that new homes and nature can work together through collaboration, with strategic and well thought out placemaking.”
