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 Since 2002, The Rutland Group has been leading the climate change agenda with proposals to develop the aerodrome into the most environmentally responsible eco-development proposed to date in Europe (2009).
In September 2009 the Secretary of State recommend that plans for the site were premature and should be brought forward in tandem with Waverley Borugh Councils Local Development Framework which is now in progress (February/March 2011).
As a result of delays to the site's future, the company is currently optimising the aerodrome’s existing planning consents. Plans now include maximising the site’s underlying consent for the manufacture, repair and flight testing of aircraft; taking advantage of Permitted Development Rights to expand and build on existing and future aviation business operations and an increased commitment to bringing film production and entertainment style events to the area.
The aviation and business uses on the site will be protected whilst the company persues its vision for an eco-friendly residential devolpment.
The Vision
The long term vision for the aerodrome remains unchanged, the removal of aviation and its replacement with a measure of sustainable eco-friendly homes designed for the way in which we will have to live in the future.
The proposals will address the issues of waste, water, energy and transport in an environmentally sustainable manner, whilst providing much needed housing of all types. This visionary scheme includes:
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Zero carbon homes for energy conservation – a first of its type in the world
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A mixed use live/work and live/walk community with all day-to-day facilities and services on site
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Exemplar low water use with full rainwater harvesting
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On site waste disposal with the highest recycling rates in UK
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The most radical transport proposals ever envisaged, designed to reduce carbon by promoting behaviour change and low or zero carbon vehicles, with a vast array of measures, including cordon charging for residents, work place car charging and comprehensive fast, frequent, cheap buses with permanent subsidy from an endowment fund
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Community ownership of all public resources
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Large scale community supported agriculture – a first for Britain, with real attempts to reduce food miles
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Primary health care services and extensive community sports and leisure facilities
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A primary school and a school for autistic children
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350 acres of bio-diverse parkland restored from miles of concrete runways, with community allotments and orchards
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Britain’s first community based biomass CHP plant, using locally sourced renewable materials
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Comprehensive development of footpaths and cycle ways to nearby communities
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350 acres of publicly accessible parkland
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Restoration of part of the Wey & Arun Canal and basin
Development raises a number of questions and issues. Through ongoing research, studies and consultation, The Rutland Group team has explored rigorously, and will continue to consider, all possible effects and benefits of the proposed development.
The Rutland Group operates an open door policy and members of the team are happy to discuss current and future activities on the airfield. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Nancy Edwards on 01483 200900.
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