What happened
Slough Borough Council has resolved to grant planning permission for the North West Quadrant development, according to the Construction Enquirer. The scheme, led by Muse in a joint venture with the council, will see the transformation of a 3.6 hectare site next to the town’s railway station.
The planning committee approved a hybrid application covering both full and outline proposals. The development will include 1,539 homes, a large office building and a variety of community facilities. The plans also call for 25,000 square metres of office space, 3,220 square metres of retail, and a nursery for 100 children. In addition, there will be a community events space, play areas, new walking and cycling routes, and parking for 420 cars.
Muse described the resolution to grant permission as a key project milestone. The firm has an established relationship with Slough Borough Council and has already carried out several development projects in the area.
The background
The North West Quadrant site has remained unused since the closure of the former university campus. The development aims to re-use this vacant land for a mixed-use neighbourhood centred around a newly planned central park.
TP Bennett provided the masterplan and designed the first building block, while Grid Architects are responsible for the remaining residential elements. The regeneration is intended to add both housing and commercial capacity to Slough, with significant community and leisure features.
Muse has worked in Slough through its partnership with the council for over a decade. The joint venture has delivered previous projects including the Curve, Slough Ice Arena, the Centre, the Moxy Hotel and over 500 residential units.
What people are saying
Hollie Carlile, senior project manager at Muse, said that securing the planning resolution is an important milestone for the North West Quadrant project and the wider redevelopment of Slough town centre.
Charlotte O’Mahony, project director at Homes England, stated that the scheme will provide much-needed homes, workspace and retail. She cited Homes England’s commitment to supporting regeneration and sustainable communities in her remarks about the project.
What happens next
With planning approval in place, Muse and Slough Borough Council can proceed with the next stages of delivery. Further detailed planning will be completed before construction begins. The site’s size and complexity mean the project is likely to proceed in phases.
The mixed-use scheme will bring new residential, office and leisure spaces to the town over the coming years. The timeline for construction has not been specified, but Muse’s previous regeneration projects provide experience for managing similar developments.