Housebuilder contributes £1 million to community infrastructure in Riseley
ALMOST £1 million in infrastructure enhancements will be made as part of a new housing development on the southern border of the borough.
CALA Homes has been constructing Dukes Meadow, a new development around Riseley, which is mostly in neighbouring Hart District Council.
As part of its obligation payments, known as Section 106money, will fund a string of community facilities.
They include more than £400,000 which will help support secondary education for schools within the catchment area of the new development.
There is also a £360,000 contribution towards a new leisure centre in Hart, and £61,000 to Riseley Parish Council to make important improvements to the local recreation ground.
And two new bus shelters will be installed on Odiham Road.
CALA Homes has also created WellesleyWaterMeadow, an off-site Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) on the edge ofWellington Country Park. It includes a 2.3km circularwalk on both surfaced and unsurfaced paths, and a boardwalk.
The housebuilder also runs a Community Bursary scheme and a donation of £1,000 was made to The CycleSmart Foundation, a Reading-based organisation that provides an educational programme to highlight the need for helmet use and safer cycling practice.
CALA’s funding was used to purchase vital helmets for a cycling proficiency programme which benefited children attending schools in the area.
Laura Powell, planning manager for CALA Homes Thames, said: “We take pride in being able to leave a lasting legacy in the communities in which we build.
“As well as creating new homes, we also want to make a difference to villages such as Riseley by enhancing infrastructure, education and amenities.
“The contributions that are now coming to fruition will undoubtedly improve many facilities for local residents and the wider community and will add value to the area.”