Published on
23 March 2026
Help shape the future of Loddon Valley Garden Village
Have your say on plans for a proposed new neighbourhood
Residents are being invited to help shape the future of Loddon Valley Garden Village by taking part in a consultation on its draft Strategic Design Code.
As part of the emerging local plan update, Loddon Valley Garden Village has been identified as the largest strategic site for new development. Several planning applications have now been submitted for the new Garden Village, which is proposed to include 3,930 homes with 40 per cent affordable housing, new employment space and the facilities and infrastructure needed for a growing community.
The design code sets out the rules and guidance that will give the proposed new village a consistent look and feel. It will guide future development across the site.
The consultation focuses on how the proposed new village could take shape, rather than on whether the site should be developed. That decision sits with the local plan examination. Instead, this is an opportunity to help influence the design if the site is allocated as part of the new local plan. Feedback will help make the design code clearer, easier to use and more locally informed.
The plan is built around four ideas: landscape, buildings, community life and travel. It emphasises working with the natural environment, creating walkable neighbourhoods, providing accessible community facilities and ensuring walking, cycling and public transport are the easiest ways to move around. A future rapid bus system is also proposed.
“We want to make sure that any development at Loddon Valley Garden Village leads to a welcoming, sustainable and well‑designed neighbourhood that works for people now and in the future,” said Cllr Stephen Conway, leader of the council.
“This consultation is a chance for residents to help shape the plans. I encourage everyone to have a look at the draft design code and share their views. What you tell us will help inform the final document, which will guide planning decisions for the site alongside the local plan.”
The draft design code has been prepared in line with national guidance and the local plan update requirement for a design code. It draws on local insight gathered through walking tours and engagement sessions.
Have your say
Residents can read the draft Strategic Design Code and complete the online survey through the Council’s Engage platform.
The consultation closes on 11 May, at which point feedback will be reviewed.
If you wish to take the survey but are unable to do so online, contact the council’s customer services team on 0118 974 6000 or visit a borough library for support.
