Developers behind the proposed £250million regeneration of Barry have set out a ‘green charter’ to explain how the plans could see Barry lead the way to a greener Wales.
The planning application, due to be heard by the Council’s planning committee in the new year, was submitted in August by a Consortium of housebuilders, comprising Persimmon Homes, Taylor Wimpey and Barratt Homes, and includes a variety of innovative eco-friendly initiatives.
Developers intend to use some of the latest bioremediation techniques to prepare the site, a more natural way to improve soil quality that involves adding microorganisms, such as bacteria, to the land in order to break down any contamination.
The planning application also outlines protection for some key habitats, including the cliff at the island side of the development and its base, and protection for key species such as slow-worms and rare plants, which will be moved to more suitable sites where it is appropriate.
The plans also include several eco-friendly development features, such as more than 1,000 new trees, ‘brown roofs’ on key commercial buildings that wildlife can live on, new ‘wildflower meadows’, a new 360m long wetland habitat complete with bird boxes and large areas of green public open space.
Richard Keogh, commenting on behalf of the Barry Waterfront Consortium, says: “These initiatives will ensure that the redevelopment of Barry Waterfront improves the current quality of the land and protects any existing wildlife habitats, while providing plenty of green areas for Barry residents to enjoy.
“We have worked hard with our consultants and advisers to look at a range of opportunities to enhance the environmental benefits of the scheme, both in terms of the construction process and the legacy that will be created when the plans come to fruition.”
The layout of the redevelopment is another important green feature in the plans as it encourages sustainable forms of travel, with cycle paths and good public transport links, including the enhancement of connections to the three local railway stations and a new bus service through the site.
Energy use and expenditure is also a key element considered through the plans. The buildings within the development will be fully-insulated and constructed to require less energy than the current 2006 building regulations. Many will be south facing, to ensure that as much warmth as possible will be gained through the sun, and will have low energy lighting throughout, to reduce energy consumption from lighting and heating, which will reduce bills and minimise the impact on the environment.