The new ‘Old Town’ version for the Kennet Centre redevelopment in Newbury has just been listed for discussion with West Berkshire Council planners.
The new ‘Old Town’ proposal for the Kennet Centre redevelopment in Newbury is up for discussion with West Berkshire Council planners next Wednesday.
This project follows the rejection of the previous Eagle Quarter plan, which was taken to appeal but ultimately dismissed due to concerns over its height and impact on the area.
The planning inspector noted that the earlier scheme's 427 units would have significantly changed Newbury's character.
The revamped Old Town plan features 317 homes at a density of about 144 dwellings per hectare, focusing on mews houses with no retail space. It has gained support from conservationists who opposed the high-rise development.
It also includes communal and private amenity spaces, with a mix of private sales and Build to Rent (BtR) options.
Additionally, the proposal suggests five new commercial units along Bartholomew Street and Market Place, alongside two reconfigured ones. Existing venues like Nando’s, Kung Fu, and the Vue cinema will remain.
Developers Lochailort claim the Kennet Centre, built in the late 1970s, is declining and needs major investment. While Newbury Town Council backs the new plan, they express concerns over the lack of affordable housing and the proposed ‘gated community’ limiting access for pedestrians and cyclists.
The scheme will provide 557 parking spaces, with 80 in the residential area and 477 in an expanded five-storey multi-storey car park.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
