Please see WDPS short briefing paper.  

Further information is available on the Taylor Wimpey website.https://www.taylorwimpey.co.uk/new-homes/st-albans/land-south-of-hill-dyke-road

Land South of Hill Dyke Road (Local Plan Allocation M2)

St Albans City and District Council has allocated Land South of Hill Dyke Road (Policy M2) for housing in its emerging Local Plan. Taylor Wimpey is proposing around 97 homes, including 40% affordable housing, along with public open space and infrastructure contributions

Given national housing requirements and the District’s housing land supply position, WDPS considers development on this site likely. Our focus is therefore to secure the strongest possible benefits for Wheathampstead.

WDPS Approach

WDPS will adopt a constructive but robust stance:

• We will not ignore the development.
• We will not simply accept what is offered.
• We will work to maximise long-term benefit for the whole village.

Our guiding principle is:

If development proceeds, it must leave Wheathampstead better than it would otherwise have been.

Key Priorities WDPS will pursue

1. A High-Quality “Destination” Playground

Rather than a minimal on-site play area, we will seek:

• A significantly enhanced, inclusive playground within walking distance.
• Equipment for a wide age range.
• Seating and social space.
• Safe walking links from the Hill Dyke estate and wider village.

The aim is to create a facility that brings communities together.

2. Better Bus Provision & Safer Transport

The developer has indicated transport mitigation and Section 106 contributions will form part of the scheme

WDPS will press for:

• Improved bus services serving the estate.
• Traffic calming and safer crossings near the B651 junction.
• High-quality pedestrian and cycle connections.
• A strong and enforceable Travel Plan.

Improvements must benefit existing residents as well as new ones.

3. Affordable Housing That Meets Local Need

The scheme proposes 40% affordable housing

We will advocate for:

• A meaningful proportion of social rent.
• Family-sized affordable homes.
• Tenure mix reflecting genuine local needs.

4. Integration, Not Division

The development must:

• Physically connect with surrounding streets.
• Avoid creating separation between the estate and the rest of the village.
• Provide accessible green space for all.

5. Environmental Quality

The proposal includes biodiversity net gain and sustainable drainage

We will seek:

• Stronger biodiversity enhancements where feasible.
• Long-term maintenance commitments.
• Protection of landscape character and boundary planting.

What Happens Next?

Taylor Wimpey intends to submit a planning application in 2026

Once submitted, there will be a formal consultation.

Before that, WDPS will:

• Engage with the developer.
• Seek clarity on likely Section 106 contributions.
• Gather member views on priority community benefits.

We Want Your Views

What should be our top priorities?

• Playground improvements?
• Bus services?
• Local shop provision?
• Youth or sports facilities?
• Other ideas?

Please share your thoughts so we can represent the community effectively. 

Please complete our electronic survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/hilldyke or paper copies available from Parish Council office

or Email info@wheathampsteadpreservation.org.uk