Poundbury redux

4 Aug 2008

john.glenday@carnyx.com

Deveron Highland have unveiled a £100 million plan to build 550 homes at Sandown Farm on the outskirts of Nairn, incorporating 138 affordable homes from development partner Servite Housing Association.  Work is scheduled to begin next year.

The residential core of the development has been designed to reflect the design principles adopted at Poundbury by the architect Leon Krier, widely ridiculed for his controversial historical pastiche.  Nevertheless by embodying the principles of new urbanism Deveron aim to effect a walkable community where priority is given to people rather than cars.

In addition to housing the plan also comprises offices, businesses, a garden centre, protected areas of wetland and designated wildlife corridors, together with space for market gardens and allotments.

Batting away media concern over the market downturn Mark Cummings of Deveron Highland said: “We have no concerns in terms of this development in current market conditions.”

"Quite the reverse, we are very positive about it."

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