Linden Homes, Westerham

Award-winning house builder Linden Homes appointed Motion to provide the detailed layout, highways and sustainable drainage design for a 38 unit residential development on the site of a former school in Westerham, Kent. Motion worked with Linden Homes to develop the 3.68 acre brownfield site, which had lain vacant for over 25 years.

The nine metre level drop across the site posed a significant design challenge for the Motion team. The gradient meant that permeable paving was not an appropriate sustainable drainage measure. The proposed design included the installation of large volumes of cellular storage soakaways, to provide below-ground storage and infiltration of storm water and surface water. Retaining structures were used to divide the plots and maximise useable garden space.

The new development has created high-quality residential homes and the provision of much-needed affordable housing. The sustainable redevelopment of the brownfield site has reduced pressure on green belt development, and will boost the local economy by improving the viability of local businesses and shops.

The completed development, ‘The Ivies’, includes a range of detached, semi-detached, terrace and 1 and 2 bedroom apartment homes at Canville Rise, Maple House and Grove House.