Masterplans

We are committed to the key sites in the Borough identified in the draft Local Plan undergoing a Masterplanning process.

This will ensure that the development meets the needs of the Borough and results in well designed, high quality, sustainable and well-connected environments

A masterplan document:

• outlines principles and requirements for development
• sets a template for guiding development
• helps ensure sites are delivered in a comprehensive and well-planned manner

The masterplanning process involves working collaboratively with:

• other statutory authorities
• community representatives
• local interest groups
• and the landowner and/or site promoter

to develop a vision and strategy for or the development of the site.

Masterplans will be produced in accordance with the site specific requirements set out in the draft Local Plan and all other relevant Local Plan policies.

On 5 March 2024, Cabinet endorsed a supplementary planning guidance document, Approach to Masterplanning.

This provides further information on what is expected of masterplan documents.

North West Hatfield Supplementary Planning Document, Hatfield

North West Hatfield is a large strategic site to the north west of Hatfield and south west of Welwyn Garden City. The North West Hatfield SPD has been prepared to guide development of this strategic site as detailed in the Local Plan.

The site has been allocated for 1750 homes plus new primary and secondary schools, a neighbourhood centre and employment.

The framework sets out key principles for the development of the site and how it links to the rest of Hatfield and beyond, and includes an indicative masterplan.

The document has been prepared by the landowner Gascoyne Estates, in collaboration with officers from WHBC and Hertfordshire County Council to help ensure the site is planned and phased comprehensively. The SPD was subject to public consultation and adopted by the council in February 2025.

View the North West Hatfield Supplementary Planning Document

View the North West Hatfield SPD Adoption Statement

North West Hatfield SEA and HRA screening

A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is required under European legislation for all plans and programmes which may have a significant effect on the environment.

A SEA aims to protect the environment and ensure the environment is considered during the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes, this promotes sustainable development.

Not all plans and programmes will require a SEA to be carried out. To decide if a SEA is required, a screening exercise is used to look at the proposals see if a significant environmental effect is likely. We consult three key statutory bodies Historic England, Natural England and the Environment Agency and ask for their views. We have carried out screening of the North West Hatfield Masterplan SPD and have determined that it would not require SEA or a Habitats Regulation Assessment.

A copy of the determination and the statement of reasons may be viewed and downloaded. They are also available to view in reception at the council offices, Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL2 2AE. You may request a copy by emailing planningpolicy@welhat.gov.uk, or telephoning 01707 357000. A charge will be made for hard copies.

View the SEA and HRA Screening Opinion document.

Birchall Garden Suburb, Welwyn Garden City

The Masterplan Framework for Birchall Garden Suburb was approved at the 5 September Cabinet meeting.

It will now become a material consideration for Development Management purposes.

View the Birchall Garden Suburb Masterplan.

Land west of Brookmans Park Railway Station (site HS22)

The Strategic Framework for the Land west of Brookmans Park Railway Station (site HS22) was approved by the Executive Member for Planning on 26 November 2024 and will now become a material consideration for Development Management purposes.

View the Strategic Framework for Land west of Brookmans Park Railway Station.