Panattoni, the largest developer in Europe, has been granted permission to build up to 1,000 new homes and 769,996 sq ft of commercial floorspace at the former AkzoNobel site in Slough town centre.
The development, which will see £217 million invested during construction, will fulfil Slough Borough Council’s long-held aspiration to regenerate the partially vacant industrial plot. Commercial floorspace has been approved for general industrial use, storage, distribution and data centre purposes, while 25% of the homes are designated for affordable ownership.
Panattoni’s plan at the site, which was most recently used as a paint manufacturing facility, will include environmental remediation ahead of construction. This will not only ensure the scheme is safe for residents and employees but also limit the need to bring forward other local greenfield sites for development. Planning and development consultancy Turley is also working alongside Panattoni to deliver additional services at the scheme, including economics, development viability, landscape and VIA, EIA, strategic communications and sustainability services.
Once complete, the build will give Slough a commercial facility fit for 21st century business needs and stimulate economic growth by generating local employment opportunities. Close proximity to the town centre will minimise the need for travel, both by private car and public transport, providing residents and occupiers with immediate access to neighbouring services and facilities. Importantly, the development will help Slough Borough Council to meet its corporate policy objectives, including local housing targets.
Tony Watkins, Development Director for Panattoni, commented: “We are delighted to have been granted permission to build in Slough. We have worked closely with Slough Council on this proposal, which will bring opportunity and regeneration to an area that has been unused for some time. The inclusion of new homes will also provide much-needed accommodation in a sustainable location for people living and working in the town. We will now work closely with our delivery team and the local authority to move the project forward.”
Sara Dutfield, Director at Turley, said: ““The granting of this planning permission is great news for Slough. Panattoni’s proactive approach to working with the council has resulted in the delivery not only of replacement employment following the relocation of Akzo Nobel’s manufacturing activities, which is of paramount importance in the current economic climate, but also 1,000 new homes in an area where they are much needed. The environmental improvements, including the decontamination of the site, will be beneficial to both the site itself and to the wider area.”