Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions and answers coming from the initial online consultation (which closed on the 8th December 2023). They are grouped into three categories; general questions about the development, questions relating to Riverside House and those questions asking about Elizabeth Park.
If you would like further information or want to speak to a member of our team, please visit the ‘Contact’ page above and send us a message. We would love to hear from you.
General Questions
Will this development increase the risk of flooding?
Any proposals will be designed so as not raise the risk of flooding. This will assessed through the production of a Flood Risk Assessment in accordance with National and Local Planning Policy and relevant guidance.
Will the proposals benefit wildlife?
Homes England are committed to ensuring that ecology and biodiversity are protected and where possible enhanced through the proposals.
Will this development lead to increased demand for utilities (water, electricity, data)?
It is unlikely that the development will generate substantial pressure on utilities infrastructure. This will be assessed through detailed technical studies in support of the application for planning permission.
How will the development benefit the local community?
Elizabeth Park will connect to existing public open space, provide opportunities for play, recreation and connect spaces away from the public highway. We will work with local communities when developing proposals to make sure facilities best serve identified local needs.
What are the timelines for this development?
Work at Riverside House and Elizabeth Park is subject to planning permission being secured. Homes England intend to submit a hybrid planning application for the proposals in the Spring of 2024.
Work on the new athletics facility at Fusiliers Way is proposed to commence on site before the end of 2024 and for an opening date in early 2026. Once this opening has been achieved (and not before) the track at Edmondscote will be demolished.
Will I have an opportunity to comment on further plans?
Homes England will engage with local communities and other interest groups as we develop proposals. We will include in person events in January 2024 and will use the information that we gather to inform our proposals. We will feedback on how your views have shaped the designs prior to submitting the application for planning permission.
Will development lead to increased traffic and congestion in the area?
We're undertaking an assessment of traffic currently. So far, we anticipate that traffic generated by the redevelopment of the offices to provide 150 new homes will be lower than that generated by the previous planning permission for 170 homes, and lower than if the office use was retained.
Riverside House Questions
What options are being considered to improve the sustainability credential of development (net zero, biodiversity net gain, use heat pumps and solar panels etc)?
The Riverside House Development Brief and the Net Zero Carbon DPD confirm the local requirements and set out a series of sustainability measures for the site that the site will conform to.
What development is being proposed at Riverside House?
Homes England intend to submit an outline planning application for up to 150 homes.
Will there be any affordable housing at Riverside House?
It is proposed that 40% of new homes will be affordable housing in accordance with Warwick District Council policy.
Will this development increase the risk of flooding?
Any proposals will be designed so as not raise the risk of flooding. This will assessed through the production of a Flood Risk Assessment in accordance with National and Local Planning Policy and relevant guidance.
How will development affect the nearby listed buildings and the conservation area?
We will provide information in support of the application for planning permission that explains how development will respect the character of the conservation area and listed buildings in the surrounding area. This will include a design code demonstrating how design quality will be maintained.
The site will be subject to a heritage assessment and will be required to confirm to the requirements of the Riverside House Development Brief.
Will there be any loss of communal space?
There will be no loss of communal open space and. public access to Riverside Walk will be improved.
How is the development being paid for?
Homes England have purchased Riverside House from Warwick District Council and will be responsible for carrying out the redevelopment of the site.
Are trees being removed?
The important trees at the site will be retained. Homes England recognises their status as a key part of the site’s character.
What is happening to Riverside House offices?
Riverside House will be demolished under our proposals. The land will be redeveloped to provide 150 new homes.
Elizabeth Park Questions
What are the plans for Edmondscote Athletics Track?
Edmondscote Athletics Track will be replaced with a new athletics facility at Fusiliers Way. Fusiliers Way will deliver improved athletics capabilities and retain the existing features at Edmondscote, including eight lane bends and 10 lane straights. The infield will allow for top class facilities for all appropriate field events.
The Fusiliers Way pavilion building will contain changing rooms and all other facilities. It will also offer a Club and Training Room. It will be designed with community use in mind so that it can also serve the local community as a meeting space and activity facility.
It is proposed that work would commence on site before the end of 2024 and for an opening date in early 2026. Once this opening has been achieved (and not before) the track at Edmondscote will be demolished.
Will the proposals benefit walking and cycling?
Yes. The proposals will benefit walking and cycling in a number of important ways.
Firstly, the site at Edmondscote will be opened up to the north and south to create a footpath link. This will be a vital link in the chain of riverside walks through Leamington. It is hoped that some of this route will be open for cycling as well.
The creation of the Myton Foot and Cycle Path as an integral part of the athletics facility will contribute a vital link in the green travel infrastructure in the area of Fusiliers Way. By linking Myton Road and Fusiliers Way the route will achieve a number of important aims, including:
Rear entrance to Myton School to allow pupils to access the school on foot or on cycles
Rear entrance to Warwick Schools to allow pupils to access the school on foot or on cycles
Access to the athletics facility for all modes of transport
A link in the green infrastructure network to connect the Myton Road / St Nicholas Park area with the Myton Green and Europa Way area
Will swimming or fishing be allowed in the River Leam?
Homes England has no control over the use of the River Leam so, this is not being considered as part of these proposals.
Will the park be dog friendly?
It is intended that proposals for Elizabeth Park will respond to how the public wants to use this site, including as a place to bring dogs. Proposals will be confirmed in collaboration with the local communities.
Are you changing or moving access to the park?
Existing points of access into Elizabeth Park will be improved to ensure it is accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.
What parking facilities are being proposed?
The parking arrangements will be subject to agreement by Warwick District Council as planning authority.
We like Elizabeth Park as it is. Why are the changes being proposed?
The proposed changes reflect the council's desire to provide a series of parks and open space to connect Leamington Spa and Warwick. This is part of the council's approach to commemorate the late Queen.