An aerial CGI view of the Brabazon neighbourhood
Brabazon has been earmarked as a new town as part of a consultation launched by the government, in a bid to address England’s housing crisis.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government launched a national consultation on March 23 featuring seven potential new town locations across the country.
Among them is Brabazon and the West Innovation Arc — a key growth zone on Filton’s doorstep.
Each proposed new town would be required to build at least 10,000 homes, with a minimum of 40 per cent affordable housing, half of which would be for social rent.
It is predicted that over the coming decades, the Brabazon site could deliver around 40,000 homes, alongside investment in transport, employment, education, retail and leisure.
The area is already home to major aerospace employers including Rolls Royce, Airbus and GKN, as well as the National Composites Centre and Isambard AI — the UK’s fastest supercomputer.
South Gloucestershire Council leader Councillor Maggie Tyrrell said: “The West Innovation Arc, including Brabazon, is an area of huge opportunity for local businesses and residents. We must ensure this opportunity unlocks vital investment in infrastructure, homes and jobs, so that it can deliver sustainable growth rooted in innovation and community.”
West of England Mayor Helen Godwin added: “The country’s fastest growing regional economy here in the West of England is the perfect place for a new town: Brabazon and the West Innovation Arc. As we continue to create jobs and growth, we need to build the right homes in the right places — with the services and infrastructure that people need.”
YTL UK Group CEO Colin Skellett said: “We’re delighted that Brabazon and the West Innovation Arc has been included in the new towns consultation, it marks a crucial step further towards becoming the most exciting multi-purpose destination in the South West.”
The consultation closes at midnight on May 18. To find out more and have your say on the proposals visit: tinyurl.com/ysz3b9k4