Rushmoor, a borough in Hampshire, England, is experiencing considerable growth, shaping its urban landscape and community dynamics. This expansion encompasses various sectors, influencing how residents live, work, and interact with their environment. Understanding this development is important for grasping the borough’s trajectory.
Key Pillars of Growth in Rushmoor
Growth in Rushmoor is evident across housing, economic activity, and infrastructure enhancements. Housing development is transforming urban centers with significant regeneration projects. The redevelopment of Aldershot town centre, including The Galleries and The Arcade, received planning permission for nearly 600 new homes. Union Yard in Aldershot has delivered 100 new homes and 128 student accommodation units, alongside commercial spaces. Rushmoor Homes Ltd aims to provide 57 new council homes across 15 sites in Aldershot and Farnborough.
Economic development is influenced by key sectors, with Farnborough Airport serving as a significant driver. The airport contributes £1.9 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy annually and supports around 2,600 local jobs, injecting £170 million of GVA into the local economy. This positions Rushmoor as one of the fastest-growing local authority areas in the UK. An aerospace and aviation industry cluster around Farnborough attracts investment and creates employment opportunities.
Infrastructure improvements support these developments. The Farnborough Civic Quarter masterplan includes significant road infrastructure changes, such as removing a gyratory and introducing a T-junction, to improve connectivity. This masterplan also incorporates two mobility hubs to enhance transport options. Public spaces and new facilities are integral to these regeneration schemes.
Strategic Planning for Future Growth
Rushmoor’s future growth is guided by strategic documents and council initiatives. The Rushmoor Local Plan, adopted in 2019, provides the framework for development within the borough up to 2032. This plan outlines spatial strategies, guiding the location, scale, and type of future development. A new Local Plan is also in preparation, aligning with legislative requirements.
Key development areas are central to these strategic plans. In Aldershot, the town centre masterplan focuses on major redevelopment projects like the former Galleries and Arcade sites. The Union Street East scheme also contributes to the town’s regeneration. For Farnborough, the Civic Quarter Masterplan envisions significant future development, including new homes, a leisure and civic center, a hotel, and green open space.
Rushmoor Borough Council drives these initiatives through partnerships. The Rushmoor Development Partnership (RDP) plays a significant role in bringing forward mixed-use developments in Aldershot and Farnborough. Their aim is to create vibrant town centers offering diverse retail, leisure, cultural, and employment opportunities, alongside new homes. The council’s Delivery Plan outlines priorities such as meeting business and resident needs, providing quality housing, and fostering vibrant neighborhoods.
Impacts and Opportunities of Growth
Growth in Rushmoor brings positive outcomes and considerations. Increased employment opportunities are prominent, with Farnborough Airport contributing significantly to local job creation. Construction projects generate substantial employment within the housing and construction sectors. These developments lead to improved local amenities and services, such as new leisure centers and public spaces, enhancing residents’ quality of life.
Growth contributes to enhanced vibrancy in town centers, attracting new businesses and residents. Regeneration efforts in Aldershot aim to create a thriving leisure and retail hub. New commercial units and public squares foster a bustling atmosphere, encouraging footfall and local economic activity. This revitalization helps ensure the borough’s towns remain dynamic and appealing.
Despite benefits, growth presents challenges. Increased pressure on existing infrastructure, including roads, public transport, schools, and healthcare services, is a consideration. Environmental factors, such as preserving green spaces and sustainable development practices, are important. Council initiatives emphasize energy-efficient homes and natural resource conservation to mitigate environmental impact. Balanced development is needed to maintain community character and ensure long-term sustainability.