PLANS to develop a shared vision for the future regeneration of Leicester’s Stocking Farm and surrounding area have been announced.
Leicester City Council has earmarked up to £500,000 from its capital programme to carry out feasibility studies, initial project development and public engagement on a range of proposals that could see major investment in the area.
Initially, the city council aims to bring forward plans for key neighbourhood schemes and help kickstart a much wider initiative looking at regeneration opportunities in the north west of the city, including Beaumont Leys.
As part of the first phase of work, the city council will explore options for bringing Stocking Farmhouse itself back into use. The council-owned, locally-listed building dates back to the late 19th century and is currently vacant.
Alongside this, a detailed feasibility study will be carried out looking at the potential development of land and buildings around Stocking Farm Neighbourhood Centre.
The potential to deliver new affordable housing on the estate will be investigated, with a focus on the potential to create an exemplar scheme for low carbon homes.
Proposals to improve public realm, walking and cycling routes and way-finding in and around Stocking Farm will also be developed as part of the proposals. This will link to the city council’s successful bid for £33milllion of Government cash form the Transforming Cities Fund.
City Mayor Peter Souls by said: “We are committed to investing in our council estates and local neighbourhoods. Stocking Farm presents an opportunity to make lasting and ambitious improvements that will transform the neighbourhood centre and bring real benefits to the wider area.
“Work is at a very early stage. We want to explore the opportunities thoroughly and work with the local community on an agreed vision to bring unused land and property back into use, improve life for local residents and help kickstart the regeneration of this important part of the city.”
Feasibility studies and initial project development are expected to take around 12 months to complete. The proposals will then be launched for public comment through a wide programme of local engagement activities.
Leicester City Council will be working with experts from De Montfort University on the emerging vision for the regeneration of Stocking Farm and wider area as part of the DMU Local+ initiative.