Major Loddon Valley Garden Village Plans Move Forward in Wokingham Borough

Local authorities and developers have now taken a significant step in the ongoing discussion about future housing, community infrastructure and open space provision in Wokingham Borough with the submission of the first detailed planning application for the Loddon Valley Garden Village.

The application was formally received by Wokingham Borough Council and marks the beginning of the statutory planning process for a large new community proposed to sit between Shinfield, Arborfield and Sindlesham, just south of the M4 motorway. Wokingham Borough Council

What’s Included in the Application

The first phase of the project — submitted by the University of Reading and partners including Gleeson Land and Hatch Farm Land Ltd — covers up to 2,800 new homes alongside a wide range of services and facilities that would serve both new and existing residents. The proposals include: Wokingham Borough Council

• Residential development: Around 2,800 homes, including up to 100 plots for custom or self-build.

• Education provision: Two new primary schools and one secondary school.

• Community facilities: A main district centre with shops, services, leisure and a smaller local hub.

• Green and open space: A new country park covering extensive green space, walking trails and connections to nature.

• Transport and connectivity: New bridges over the M4 and River Loddon, enhanced pedestrian and cycle routes, and improved road connections.

• Biodiversity and nature: Plans include a 20% biodiversity net gain, designed to improve habitats for local wildlife and link new green corridors to existing countryside. Wokingham Borough Council

A linked application for additional housing and infrastructure by Gleeson Land is also progressing through the council’s planning channels, proposing up to 430 further homes and associated landscaping and access improvements. Wokingham Borough Council

Public Consultation and Next Steps

With the application now officially lodged, it has entered the public consultation phase. Residents, community groups and stakeholders are encouraged to review the plans and submit feedback via the council’s planning portal. The consultation period is part of the council’s usual planning assessment process, and feedback received will be considered as officers and elected members prepare reports and recommendations. Wokingham Borough Council

Local planners will assess the proposal alongside the emerging Local Plan Update, which sets out long-term strategic priorities for housing and development across the borough. Detailed proposals for infrastructure and specific parcels of land will follow future applications if this first outline application is supported to progress. Wokingham Borough Council

Responses from Partners

Representatives from the University of Reading and co-applicants have emphasised their aim to balance the need for new homes with wider community and environmental benefits. Local planning officials have also highlighted the importance of public input as part of the consultation process.

Although opinions on the project vary, supporters argue it could deliver much-needed housing and jobs while expanding local facilities and accessible green space. Opponents have raised concerns about potential impacts on traffic, local services and the character of rural areas — points that are likely to be addressed through the formal planning review and consultation responses.

Have your say: Full application documents and information on how to provide comments are available on the Wokingham Borough Council planning portal under reference 252498. Wokingham Borough Council

Featured Image – Artist’s impression of the proposed Loddon Garden Village Loddon Garden Village Loddon(image credit: Savills Urban Design)