Major scheme is seen as positive sign that building will continue through downturn

Housebuilder Crest Nicholson has submitted a planning application for 1,300-home development in the Oakgrove area of Milton Keynes, despite the economic downturn.

The outline planning application, submitted together with Milton Keynes Partnership, which is part of the Homes and Communities Agency, envisages 1,300 new homes including 30% affordable housing, a neighbourhood centre and 14.5ha of open space.

John Lewis, chief executive of the Milton Keynes Partnership, said: 鈥淚t is very encouraging that Crest has chosen to submit a major planning application at such a challenging time.鈥�

Chris Tinker of Crest Nicholson said: 鈥淭he current economic climate may be unfavourable but this is a large scheme, to be developed over a number of years. Oakgrove will provide an attractive and balanced new community, wel- integrated into the surrounding area and we are confident of its long-term success.鈥�

The application will be considered by Milton Keynes council and will be followed by an infrastructure application in summer 2009. It is hoped that work will commence in spring 2010 with completion by 2017.

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