Councillors in Hillingdon have agreed revised proposals for the future of RAF Uxbridge following consultation on draft ideas last year. Council officials say the 340 responses received from residents have helped ensure that the proposals reflect the needs of the local community.
During World War II the station served as the headquarters of No. 11 Group RAF during the Battle of Britain, which was responsible for the defence of London and the South-East.
The new proposals envisage the site being developed into four quarters, each catering for varying needs in the community and requires that measures be taken to protect the area from any adverse impacts of redevelopment.
The proposals envisage the site being developed into four main quarters, each catering for varying needs in the community:
Town Centre extension: Theatre/music venue, cafes and restaurants, shops and offices, improved links with Uxbridge High Street.
Following consultation, it became clear that demand for commercial floor space can partly be provided in and near the existing town centre so the space allocated for this on the RAF site was reduced in the final planning document.
The number of residential units required has been increased to around 700 to more adequately reflect the likely demand for housing in such a highly accessible area.
Southern quarter: High quality residential area with community facilities and good links to the town centre.
Following consultation, the number of homes has been reduced to around 760, with a mix of size and style to meet the needs of the local community.
Northern quarter: Housing, primary school, public access along the River Pinn and other areas, enhance the river corridor.
Following consultation, the number of homes provided has been reduced to 80 to ensure that the attractive qualities of the landscape are retained.
Open space quarter: Retention and protection of green belt land a high quality open space, linked to the town centre. The historic Hillingdon House, originally built in 1717 by the Duke of Schomberg, the bunker and the River Pinn corridor will be protected and enhanced.
A planning application from the site owner and developers is expected this summer, following further public consultation.i
Read more about the history of RAF Uxbridge on Wikipedia (external link)
