Bidding opens for Aldershot Garrison redevelopment

The future expansion of Aldershot to provide around 4,500 new homes has moved a step closer.

The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), acting in partnership with the owner Defence Estates, has asked for developers to bid to redevelop the 148 ha Aldershot Urban Extension (AUE) site in Hampshire.

The brief is to regenerate the surplus military land at Aldershot Garrison to create a mixed use residential scheme of around 4,500 homes together with community facilities, schools, local centres and leisure facilities.

Kevin Bourner, head of area at the HCA, said: “The HCA has the expertise to secure the best deal for the community and the best value for the taxpayer from the sale of this surplus public land.

“We will ensure this new development continues to serve the people of Aldershot and invigorate the town centre. The winning bidder will have to achieve high standards of sustainability, design and ensure new affordable homes and community facilities are part of their plans.”

Defence Estates, which manages all of the Ministry of Defence’s land, is selling part of the estate after a planned restructure and consolidation to meet operating needs.

Wendy Ivess-Mash, deputy head of land management services at Defence Estates, said: '”We look forward to working with HCA on this exciting project. It will both benefit the local community and support our Armed Forces through the re-investment of the sale proceeds.”

The AUE is one of the largest brownfield sites in the South East of England, which has been released as part of a strategic defence review. As Aldershot is the home of the British Army, much of the operational military estate will be retained.

Potential developers will have to take into account the heritage features and listed buildings and ensure that the development is delivered to meet the expectations set out in the Supplementary Planning Document (SPD).

Peter Moyle, leader of Rushmoor Borough Council, said: “The council welcomes the opportunity that the Aldershot Urban Extension brings to create a vibrant, pleasant and sustainable place to live. I believe it will be a major asset to the local community and help stimulate continued economic growth and regeneration.”

Rushmoor Borough Council adopted the AUE SPD in March 2009 which sets out the guidelines for the development to ensure quality homes in a sustainable and energy efficient environment, where people want to live and work. The principles of the SPD built on the finding of the Enquiry by Design which took place in 2005.

The AUE represents the major housing allocation for the Rushmoor Core Strategy.

Drivers Jonas Deloitte has been appointed as marketing agents. DJD Director, Alex McKinlay, commented: “Aldershot Urban Extension is the most significant MoD property to be sold outside London in the last decade. It offers a fantastic opportunity to deliver substantial and much needed housing supply whilst regenerating this historic Garrison Town. We expect competition to be fierce amongst the leading players in the development field.”

Potential developers have until 15 April to submit expressions of interest to the HCA. It is hoped a development partner will be in place by the end of the year. Work could start on site from 2012.