Date: Issued by:

Thursday October 31, 2013 David Allen (0118) 974 6060

Issue No: 260j/13 Version: 1.0

ARBORFIELD GARRISON PLANNING APPLICATION TO BE WITHDRAWN The Arborfield Garrison Landowners Consortium has given notice of its intention to withdraw its planning application for 2,000 homes and accompanying infrastructure following a request from Wokingham Borough Council. The borough council had recommended that the application be withdrawn because vital information, such as a valid transport assessment, was inadequate. Wokingham Borough Council executive member for planning and highways Cllr Keith Baker said: We are pleased the developer is intending to withdraw this application and are now keen to work with them, and with the community, to get a better plan in place. By withdrawing, the developers would be showing respect for the local residents and planning process, and we see that as a very positive sign. In terms of the councils long-term vision, this does not change anything: we remain committed to high quality homes accompanied by the right infrastructure on the garrison site. The Arborfield Strategic Development Location, which includes the garrison site, will see a total of 3,500 homes brought to the area along with a new secondary school, two primary schools a new food store, other shops, a neighbourhood centre, sports facilities, health facilities, plays areas and nature reserves. Residents can find out more about the plans at the regular community forums that are held to update local people and discuss aspects of the developments. The next forum meeting will be at Henry Street Garden Centre at 7pm on Monday November 11 where representatives from the Arborfield Garrison Landowners Consortium will be giving a presentation and answering questions. - ENDS Further information: 1. Community forums have been established to bring residents, developers, community groups, town and parish council and the borough council together to discuss the major developments that are taking place across the borough over the next few years. The Arborfield Community Forum will be chaired by Cllr Dianne King and will be attended by borough council officers and members as well as representatives from the Arborfield Garrison Landowners Consortium. 2. More from Tracey Coleman, assistant delivery programme director, on (0118) 974 6442 or 07824 477800. Alternatively please contact Cllr Keith Baker, executive member for planning and highways, on 07917 673370. Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 1WQ Tel: (0118) 974 6000 Email: communications@wokingham.gov.uk