Key planning obstacles include adhering to West Berkshire Core Strategy policies and ensuring the new structure fits within the protected employment area.  The site’s current condition, featuring old single-storey buildings with poor environmental performance, necessitates careful consideration for demolition and replacement.  Additionally, maintaining access and managing the site's integration into the existing industrial estate required detailed planning and coordination with local authorities.

Initial stages involved a pre-application enquiry with West Berkshire Council, which indicated general support for the proposal within the settlement boundary.  The team conducted thorough site analysis, reviewing transport, drainage, acoustic impact, ecology, and sustainability reports to inform the design and ensure compliance with local planning guidelines.

The design approach draws from the industrial character of Hambridge Road and its surrounding areas. The proposal seeks to create a two-storey building that mirrors the scale and form of neighbouring structures while introducing modern design elements.  References to local industrial materials and styles are incorporated, ensuring the new building blends seamlessly with its context while providing a contemporary workspace.

The resolved design features a two-storey commercial building with a footprint of 621 sqm, including a 1,164 sqm total area over two floors.  The structure is strategically placed to align with existing buildings, featuring a north-facing aspect to maximize daylight without overheating through solar gain.  The design integrates clear navigation and legibility, with defined parking, loading areas, and a prominent entrance for visitors and staff.

The materials chosen include insulated cladding panels in mid-blue with contrasting feature panels, inspired by the applicant’s branding.  The windows are polyester powder-coated, thermally broken aluminium framed, and the roof is a profiled metal covering with integrated photovoltaic cells.  Permeable tarmac and soft landscaping materials are used to enhance the site's appearance and functionality.

Sustainability is a core aspect of the project, aiming for a BREEAM rating of "very good," with aspirations for "excellent."  The building employs a "fabric first" approach, modern methods of construction (MMC), and features photovoltaic panels and air-source heat pumps.  Additionally, the project includes rain gardens and soft landscaping to achieve a 10% biodiversity net gain, addressing the site's current lack of ecological features.

For Thatcham Butchers the new facility offers an efficient, sustainable workspace that supports business growth.  The development revitalises the Hambridge Road industrial estate, providing modern infrastructure and creating new employment opportunities.  The project exemplifies sustainable redevelopment, enhancing the local employment area while contributing positively to Newbury's urban environment.