New heritage architect appointed for Wolverton Works project

I am writing, on behalf of St Modwen, to give you an update on the company’s proposals to redevelop Wolverton Works in the heart of the town centre. As you will be aware, a planning application for the regeneration of the Works was submitted to Milton Keynes Council in August 2015. These plans include new business premises to support hundreds of current and future rail-related jobs, up to 375 new homes, a foodstore, public open spaces and a heritage centre. I am delighted to confirm that St. Modwen has now appointed Purcell, one of the UK’s leading architectural practices with a dedicated focus on heritage, to join its design team for the regeneration of Wolverton Works. Purcell has been asked to review the residential element of the proposals (including the masterplan) and to assess ways in which the development can better reflect the existing layout and the heritage of the site. The brief for Purcell has been agreed between St. Modwen and planning officers at the Council. St. Modwen has been impressed with Purcell’s credentials and in particular their considerable experience in the regeneration of sites with a strong focus on heritage. This is already clear from the work they have done to date in reviewing the proposals and considering alternative options for the delivery of new housing. Discussions with Council officers and other relevant consultees will continue to take place over the coming weeks. Information about when and how the members of the public can view any revisions to the proposals will be announced in the next few weeks. It is hoped that a decision on the Outline Planning Application for Wolverton Works will be made by the Council later this summer following its re-consultation on any revisions to the plans. If you have any questions about the redevelopment of the Works you can find more information on the project website, www.wolvertonworks.com. You can also contact the project team by calling 0344 225 0003 or by emailing matthew.evans@glhearn.com.