The outline planning application was submitted at the end of December 2024, on behalf of Merton College, for the phased delivery of employment development that will form part of the proposed Woodhall Neighbourhood.

The site is part of Worcestershire Parkway, a new settlement that is being promoted through the current South Worcestershire Development Plan Review (SWDPR). Extending to approximately 72.64 acres (29.396 hectares), the site forms the western parcel of the wider Worcestershire Parkway / Wychavon Town Strategic Growth Area (SGA) draft allocation.

Plans proposed in the outline application submitted to Wychavon District Council include site clearance / remediation works and engineering works to create new development platforms; the construction of up to 1.1 million sq ft of employment floorspace (Use Class B2, B8 and ancillary E(g)(i)), along with associated works and green infrastructure comprising formal, informal open space and amenity space.

If approved, the plans would generate around 1,650 on-site jobs during the operational phase.

The SGA extends to approximately 1,130 hectares and is bounded by the M5, A44, the North Cotswold and Birmingham to Bristol (or Cross Country) main railway lines and Stoulton to the east. Land within the SGA strategic allocation is identified to deliver approximately 10,000 dwellings and 50 hectares of employment land in a phased manner.

The first phase to be delivered in this Plan period, between 2021 – 2041, will comprise approximately 5,000 dwellings, 50 hectares of employment land, a main town centre, with well-connected western and southern neighbourhoods, each with local centres, education provision, supporting services, community facilities and green infrastructure.

Mike Davies, director and head of planning at Savills in Birmingham, says: “Forming an integral part of the Worcestershire Parkway and Wychavon Town SGA, this major outline planning application proposes significant benefits to the area, such as a boost to employment, economic growth and the provision of key infrastructure and services. Identified as key sites for future development, these SGAs are crucial in meeting long-term housing, employment, and community needs.”

A decision on the planning application is expected in 2026.