The construction programme for development of the site will take place in three phases to minimise impact on the environment. Whilst work is in progress,
every effort will be made to ensure that disruption to local residents is kept to a minimum. Ensign would also work closely with Daventry District Council to maintain reasonable working hours and ensure that the impact of construction traffic on the surrounding infrastructure is kept to a minimum - especially at
peak times.

As part of Ensign’s commitment to providing a well-balanced, sustainable community with a long-term future, the buildings at Buckton Fields will be designed to cause minimal environmental impact both during construction and once in use. Homes will be built to achieve compliancy with the prevailing Code for Sustainable Homes level requirements. In addition, low water use appliances would be fitted in homes to reduce water consumption and appropriate recycling facilities including suitable storage would be provided.

Modern building methods and effective planning will be used to reduce waste and the amount of time spent on site helping to further reduce environmental impact. Wherever possible, reclaimed materials sourced from local sites or suppliers would be used during construction, a site waste management plan will be developed to reduce waste on site and Ensign will register the Buckton Fields site with the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

If planning permission is granted, subject to receiving the appropriate approval on reserved matters, construction should commence within 12 months of receipt of outline planning permission with first occupants moving in nine months after.

In accordance with the Code for Sustainable Homes – the Government’s strategy aimed at encouraging a new national standard for the sustainable design and construction of new homes - Ensign will incorporate the following measures where possible:

• Improved energy efficiency;
• Grey water harvesting;
• Use of renewable energy resources;
• Recyclable building materials;
• Construction waste recycling; and
• Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDs).

The Environment Agency has identified that the Buckton Fields site sits outside the River Nene floodplain. Having modelled the effects of extreme rainfall conditions on the River Nene, including the effects of climate change, the Agency has identified that the site is above the predicted 1 in 1000-year flood level. A Flood Risk Assessment has been undertaken by Ensign, taking account of discussions with the Environment Agency, which conforms to government guidance (PPS25).