Beaumont Lays and Stocking Farm
This scheme sits on the rural fringe, where the historic Stocking Farm meets a new residential layout at Beaumont Lays. The plan works by keeping the farm as a clear agricultural anchor while clustering the housing on the southern side, using open space as a buffer. The goal is a coherent rural village that respects the farmland character and the views across the landscape.
Stocking Farm
Stocking Farm provides the rural context and the agrarian character of the site. The existing farm buildings and fields are preserved and integrated into the overall layout. The farm continues to be the northern anchor of the site, and the plan protects its agricultural use.
Beaumont Lays
The residential component is clustered on the southern part of the site, with a layout that follows the natural contours and preserves the best views. The houses are arranged in small groups around shared open space, which helps create a sense of community and a coherent village character. The layout also maximizes privacy for each home and minimizes the visual impact on the surrounding farmland.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The scheme is served by a new rural lane that connects to the existing road network. The lane is designed with a rural character, using local materials and a layout that follows the site’s topography. Parking is provided for each home, with a focus on minimizing the visual impact of vehicles. Drainage is handled by a sustainable drainage system that mimics natural processes and helps manage surface water.
Open Space and Ecology
A significant amount of open space is retained across the site, including a large northern buffer that protects the farmland and enhances the rural character. The open space is designed for biodiversity, with wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and new tree planting. These features also help to screen the housing from the farm and the opposite side of the site.
Conclusion
The Beaumont Lays and Stocking Farm scheme delivers a well-considered rural village that balances housing and agriculture. By clustering the homes, protecting the farmland, and providing high-quality open space and infrastructure, the plan creates a coherent and sustainable rural community that respects the site’s history and character.