Public footway closure off Lower Way extended for six more months for 91-home build in Thatcham

A public footway – which has been closed for almost six months – will be closed for another six months.

The footpath just off Lower Way was closed on May 1 and was due to reopen on November 1.

But an extension to the order means it is now due to reopen on May 2, 2024.

The purpose of the closure is for construction work for a 91-home development off Lower Way, north of Thatcham Lakes.

A diversion will be in place and signed on site.

Read more: Thatcham’s 91 homes on Lower Way will be built

Dozens of residents objected to the scheme, fearing increased traffic and loss of green space.

However it was given the go ahead last year.

The scheme was recommended for approval by West Berkshire Council planners, who said that building on the field near Lower Way will actually improve biodiversity.

The application, according to officers, is acceptable in planning terms as the site delivers a 12 per cent gain in biodiversity, with landscaping and hedgerows, as well as gaps in the fences for hedgehogs.

The proposed scheme seeks to deliver 37 affordable units in accordance with the policy.

This equates to 14 one-bed flats, six two-bed flats, seven two-bed houses, eight three-bed houses and two four-bed houses.

Twenty-six units are provided as affordable rented and 11 shared ownership.

Blue light access is permitted throughout the footpath closure period.

All enquiries can be directed to Persimmon Homes on (01276) 808 093.