Link road works underway
We’ve recently started works to prepare the site for the construction of the new 1.2 mile link road joining Burnetts Lane in the south to Allington Lane in the north. A big focus of the design are the safe travel features, which include a 30mph speed limit and shared cycle and pedestrian facilities. Once complete, the road will enable more direct travel between Hedge End and Fair Oak and will carry all future development construction traffic, avoiding the village of Horton Heath.
Chalcroft Way landscaping
Extensive landscape planting has recently been completed along Chalcroft Way. The planting includes 16 hornbeam trees (carpinus betulus) which line either side of the road, forming a staggered avenue that will eventually provide an impressive entryway into the south of the site.
SSE diversion works
Works to remove overhead cables north of Fir Tree Lane will continue throughout spring. Some works will see diversions on local footpath routes. Visit our website to keep updated on the latest works on site and nearby.
Reinstatement works
We’ll be returning to areas of the site this summer to complete grass reseeding, returning these spaces to their former state. Due to recent wet weather, some final construction activities linked to the recent SSE works have been postponed at locations in the vicinity of Fir Tree Lane and Chalcroft Farm.
Flourishing wildlife area
The newly created wildlife area to the north of the Allington Lane Open Space is beginning to flourish as spring progresses. The area has been designed to support local wildlife, and boasts features such as ‘bug hotel’ hibernacula, rich native planting and wildlife ponds, all intended to support local animal populations.
History of materials at Chalcroft Farm
Materials salvaged during phase one of demolitions at Chalcroft Farm have uncovered some insights into the farm’s history. An upcoming YouTube video will explore the significance of these materials.
New shared footpath cycleway
Have you taken a stroll or bike ride along the new Chalcroft Way shared footpath cycleway? Completed in autumn 2021, the route connects Bubb Lane and Burnetts Lane, and provides an early look at future travel around the site.
Bat rehoming success
Ecologists were on hand during a recent demolition to re-home a brown long-eared bat in one of the 20+ bat boxes installed around site. Bats are an important ecological consideration and we’re continuing to monitor their behaviour and ensure their protection.