'Floating homes' proposals near Theale to go on display

225 homes planned for 'Burghfield Park'

BURGHFIELD and Theale villagers can view the latest proposals for a floating homes scheme around Theale Lake next week.

Berfield Limited wants to build 225 houses near the lake, off Hangar Road, between Theale and Sheffield Bottom.

Two hundred of the homes at ‘Burghfield Park’ will be traditional, with the remainder being ‘can-float’ homes.

Widely used in Holland, ‘can-floats’ are sited on dry ground, but rise and fall with water levels when the lake is used to hold excess floodwater.

The proposals also include a replacement bridge in Hangar Road, flood defences and improvements to Burghfield Sailing Club.

People can view the latest draft plan for the site at two exhibitions to be held at the sailing club next week. The first will be held between 4pm and 8pm on Friday, March 4. Another will be held between 10am and 3pm on Saturday, March 5.

Berfield, a joint venture between Floodline Developments and Larkfleet Homes, said that its plans would provide affordable housing and homes to help meet council targets.

Project leader Justin Meredith, of Floodline Developments, said: “At a time when the council has a real need to see new housing delivered, we feel that our plans for Burghfield Park offer an exciting and innovative opportunity to not only provide new homes but also local infrastructure improvements at no cost to the public purse.

“We hope that local residents will take the time to come along to our exhibition next week as we’re keen to discuss our plans and more importantly, hear what people have to say.”

A planning application is expected in the coming months.

People with questions about the proposals can contact Berfeld Limited on a dedicated community line on 0808 1781 295.

The project team can also be emailed via response@burghfield-park.com