The newly revised Stainsby Country Park Development Plan to be put before Middlesbrough Council's Executive next week details:
- More than 40 hectares of additional green public open space with planting of 18,000-25,000 native trees and shrubs;
- A new country park;
- Community amenities including play and sports provision;
- Housing within a landscaped setting;
- A commitment to the Council's One Planet Living principles;
- Public orchards with fruit trees;
- A proposed community hub and visitor centre.
The proposed scheme is in West Middlesbrough on land running parallel with the A19 which was approved for housing as part of the authority's 2014 local plan. The 130 hectare site was designated for a minimum of 1,670 dwellings.
An area called Stainsby North, known locally as Mandale Meadow, was earmarked for 100 of the homes but this part of the plan has now been removed.
The new executive report however stresses the benefits of the major environmental improvements.
It states that the proposed new country park would be the "jewel in the crown" of the new development and accessible to both new and existing residents.
The report adds: "The masterplan enhances and extends existing habitats such as Blue Bell Beck, Mandale Meadow and West Plantation and creates a wide range of new habitats.
"These will interact and flow throughout the development providing a seamless transition between the built environment and the countryside, facilitating the movement of wildlife and people.
"The review provides a comprehensive network of play and recreation facilities ensures that residents have easy access to a natural, stimulating, and safe environment for recreation and healthy living activities for all ages and abilities."
If approved by Executive a consultation process with residents and stakeholders will take place early in the New Year.
