Residents are being given another opportunity to have their say on one of the largest proposed developments on the outskirts of Welwyn Garden City, following the submission of further information relating to the Birchall Garden Suburb planning application.
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and East Herts Council have launched a further public consultation on the proposals, which could see up to 2,650 new homes built on land to the south-east of Welwyn Garden City.
The development site lies north of the A414, extending across Birchall Lane and Cole Green Lane, and straddles the boundary between the two local authorities.
In addition to housing, the proposals include new schools, local centres, community facilities, open spaces and supporting infrastructure, effectively creating a substantial new community on the edge of the Garden City.
Why is there another consultation?
The outline planning application, originally submitted in 2022, has been under consideration for several years.
During that time, the applicant has submitted additional technical reports and supporting information. Both councils have now decided that the latest material should be made available for further public scrutiny before a decision is reached.
Residents, community organisations and other interested parties are being invited to examine the additional documents and submit their comments.
Those living closest to the proposed development will also receive letters explaining the consultation process.
A development of considerable significance
Birchall Garden Suburb represents a major expansion of the built-up area surrounding Welwyn Garden City.
The site has already been identified for development in the adopted Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan (2023) and East Herts District Plan (2018). However, its allocation for development does not mean that the current planning application has been approved.
The detailed implications of a development on this scale remain important considerations, particularly its potential effects on the surrounding countryside, local roads, public services, wildlife habitats and the wider character of the Garden City.
For the Welwyn Garden City Society, the principles that have guided the town’s development for more than a century remain particularly relevant. New development should be carefully planned, supported by appropriate infrastructure and designed to respect the landscape and distinctive character of Welwyn Garden City.
Two separate consultations
The councils have emphasised that this latest consultation should not be confused with the ongoing Regulation 19 consultation on the emerging Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan, which runs until 5 November 2026.
Although both concern future development at Birchall Garden Suburb, they are separate planning processes.
Importantly, the current planning application seeks permission for more homes than are proposed through the emerging Local Plan.
Residents wishing to comment on both matters will therefore need to make separate representations through the appropriate consultation processes.
Have your say
The Welwyn Garden City Society encourages residents to take this opportunity to familiarise themselves with the proposals and consider how the development might affect the town and its surrounding area.
Whether your concerns relate to transport, environmental protection, infrastructure, housing provision or the character of Welwyn Garden City, this consultation provides an opportunity to make your views known.
All representations received will be considered by the planning authorities as part of their assessment before the application is determined.
The additional information can be viewed through the councils’ planning portals using the application reference:
The Society will continue to follow the progress of this significant planning application and its implications for the future of Welwyn Garden City.
