The Molins Site, Saunderton

Site

The Molins site was a 10.4 hectare industrial site located both within the Green Belt and Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Site formerly comprised of a circa 35,458 sq.m. warehouse with parking for up to 650 cars.

Proposed Development

Redevelopment of the Site to provide four data centre buildings with parking for up to 150 cars and a Sub-Station. Contained within buildings ranging from 2 – 3 storeys in height. With the former Ball Room and Office buildings in the northern part of the site being retained.

In total the application proposed 92,681 sq. m. of floorspace, comprising:

• Total data centre – 37,403 sq. m.
• Total internal plant – 21,510 sq. m.
• Total external plant – 18,930 sq. m.
• Circulation space/corridors – 14,010 sq. m.
• Lifts/stairs – 720 sq. m.
• Miscellaneous floor areas – 108 sq. m.

Consultation

Prior to the submission of the application the applicant engaged various organisations including:

• The Chilterns AONB;
• The Environment Agency;
• The County Archaeologist;
• The Highways Authority;
• The Local Planning Authority;
• Saunderton and Bledlow ridge Parish Council, and
• Bradenham Parish Council.

Issues

• Impact upon the Green Belt;
• Visual impact and effect on special character and appearance of the AONB;
• Contamination, light, noise and dust pollution;
• impact upon amenity of adjacent occupiers;
• Schedule Ancient Monument (“SAM”) located on site;
• Environmental Impact Assessment;

Outcome

Full planning permission was granted by Wycombe District Council following the successful negotiation of a Section 106 Agreement. All pre-application conditions were successfully discharged allowing implementation of the permission. 

Development Team

Client: e-Shelter

Architecture: ARUP