Urban Animation is retained by Altyre Estate to provide a full range of planning and urban design services.
There is development pressure at the north of the Estate, where Forres is expanding southwards. Urban Animation has prepared the Dallas Dhu Master Plan to guide development on allocated housing sites. The Master Plan has been adopted by Moray Council as policy.
The development will open out to the surrounding landscape, integrating land within the Chapelton Flood Storage scheme at the rural edge of Forres. A low carbon development is proposed, achieving a very high quality of place making. Landscape design is central to the layout for the scheme, both within the development and in its relationship with the surrounding countryside. A multi-generational community is planned, with housing for all ages.
Moray Council proposes a first phase of development, providing 24 affordable homes, supported by the Moray Growth Deal. Design of this phase went to tender in early 2021. A planning application is expected later in the year. Other developments, including market housing and a housing innovation project will follow. Altyre Estate is working closely with the Council to ensure the development achieves the highest possible standards of design, place making and sustainability.
The planning strategy for Altyre Estate has benefited from a clear vision, a long term outlook and a land owner committed to high quality design and environmental standards. The Dallas Dhu development is intended as a ‘legacy’ development, setting a benchmark for others to follow in Moray and beyond.