It’s an important step forward for the ambitious low carbon project, and initial behind-the-scenes work is slated to start next month.

The plan is to convert a former industrial site into the waterside community, which will include over 150 sustainable homes, with 30% of those being affordable housing.

Public spaces, commercial, retail, leisure, community, and business facilities and the restoration of the canal basin – which was infilled after World War II – are also featured in the estate plans.
 
“This is an important and exciting low carbon development for Brimscombe, the Golden Valley and the wider district,” said council leader Catherine Braun.

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“The developer will be following Building with Nature standards in line with our 2030 strategy for a more sustainable future.”
 
Natalie Bennett, deputy council leader, welcomed the news, saying: “We want this development to be at the heart of Brimscombe; It should, and will provide a sustainable community for future generations.”
 
Meanwhile, ward councillor Beki Aldam said their vision to see ‘an exemplar and sustainable community, integrated with the existing surroundings’ is really crystallising now, and they are eager to see many people’s hard work starting to appear.

She added she is looking forward to a planned public meeting and seeing how the developer will play more of a part in their community as the project advances.
 
Jeremy Attwater, regional managing director for South at St Modwen Homes, said his company is enthusiastic about what’s next.

“This is a fantastic project, and we are delighted to have been chosen to take this forward.

“Even as a brownfield site, we see so much potential to create something truly special for the community and the wider district.”
 
He added St Modwen Homes will preserve the heritage buildings, including the listed stone-built Port Mill and Salt Warehouse, and it is keen to make sure the development is sensitive to its surroundings.

Jeremy also said the company has broad experience in the local and wider area and will definitely employ locals.
 
After winning the rigorous selection process, St Modwen Homes will now draw up a detailed planning application for the redevelopment proposals, including public consultation, starting with the public meeting mentioned by Beki.