Leicester’s Stocking Farm estate could be transformed with energy efficient homes

Plans for the regeneration of a council estate in Leicester, Stocking Farm, have been submitted to the city council for planning approval.

If approved the estate could see 50 new energy efficient homes built on the 3.34 acre site, with each home fully insulated and heated with air source heat pumps.

Several of the flats would be made accessible for wheelchair users and the farmhouse on site would be converted into supported living accommodation.

There are also plans for a new public green space, which would include a children’s play area, attractive landscaping, and an area for wildlife to enjoy.

Cllr Elly Cutkelvin, Assistant City Mayor for Housing, said: ‘There has been extensive consultation with local people on the development of these ambitious plans over the last two years, and their input has been vital in shaping the proposals.

‘Now that a planning application has been submitted, people have yet another chance to let us know what they think and to help to revitalise this important neighbourhood and provide much-needed homes.’

If the project is allowed to go ahead improvements would also be made to local shops, while a public footpath from Marwood Road to Packwood Road and a pedestrian crossing would also be created.

The city council has already worked with award-winning social enterprise Community Shop to bring a branch of the affordable retailer to the area.

The former youth centre on the estate has been developed into a building providing affordable groceries, a community kitchen, training for members and a café available to non-members where children eat for free.

Leicester City Council previously dedicated £500,000 to conducting feasibility studies, initial project development and public engagement on proposals.

Photo by Nirmal Rajendharkumar