Hazeley Group were keen to extend the site and created an ambitious four-year redevelopment plan that would transform the existing site into a modern and dynamic business destination, featuring a mix of office and light industrial buildings alongside a central hub with a café and meeting spaces.

However, the site is positioned within the International Dark Skies Reserve Map and this means certain criteria needed to be met for the planning application. On top of that, the Hampshire woodland surrounding the area was home to various wildlife, including bats, which needed to be protected.

A major aspect of the approved plan included the removal of the feed mill, currently the largest of its kind in southern England. Hazeley Group collaborated with neighbours, local authorities, and other agencies to facilitate the demolition of the mill, which is now scheduled to be completed in 2025. The mill will be replaced with smaller, energy-efficient buildings that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and the enterprise park.

The redevelopment is set to address the local shortage of high-quality business units, potentially creating over 360 new jobs. It will also enhance pedestrian and cycling connectivity with the nearby village and establish a new wildlife area featuring improved grassland species and broadleaved woodland.

DFL were asked to provide a Lighting Strategy and Technical Report for the site. When our Lighting Impact and Planning Team take on a new project, a thorough ecology report is a strong focus for us, thankfully provided by the team at Pro Vision. Whilst we have the knowledge on lighting in rural areas without harming local inhabitants, a professional ecology report is a always a key point of reference for us and we regularly work closely with the Ecologists already on board, to be certain of the location of the ‘dark corridors’ that need to be incorporated into the lighting design for the site.

With the business park lighting really only being used during office hours, we suggested downward facing wall mounted lights for the business units, which cascade warm white light onto the pavement area and would be for wayfinding purposes.

The parking area will be lit by bollards, with reduced height columns being used for the access roads with a zero degree tilt lantern controlled by PIR sensors. This will ensure that lighting is only used where and when its needed.

As always, DFL follow the guidance provided by the Bat Conservation Trust and Institution of Lighting Professionals to ensure the nearby bat activity is protected and late last year, planning was fully approved by Winchester City Council and on behalf of the South Downs National Park Authority.

The Team

Developer - Hazeley Group, Architect/Ecology - Pro Vision, Lighting Designers - DFL

Big thank you to Hazeley Group for use of their images.