Application update
Planning application submitted soon
Following two phases of public consultation and extensive discussions with local stakeholders, Oaklands College and Taylor Wimpey will shortly submit a hybrid planning application for the regeneration of the Oaklands College site and new residential-led scheme on land off Sandpit Lane, to be called Oaklands Blossom.
Thank you to all those who shared feedback – your input has directly shaped the final proposals.
Final Taylor Wimpey Proposals
Final Oaklands College Proposals
What is included as part of the hybrid application?
The hybrid application includes 169 new homes, a local centre, community centre, open space, and associated infrastructure within the first phase (detailed element). It also includes detailed proposals for a new animal management centre, high needs centre, creative gateway, refurbishment of the Mansion House, and film studio facilities within the Oaklands College campus.
The outline element of the application seeks permission for a further 303 new homes, up to 80 extra-care homes for older persons, a safeguarded primary school site and construction zone, multi-sports pitch upgrades (including cricket, hockey, and athletics), as well as a skate park and energy centre, all within the Oaklands College campus.
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Introduction
A new development for St Albans and improvements to Oaklands College
Oaklands College and Taylor Wimpey have partnered to bring forward a jointly prepared planning application for the College’s proposals to redevelop their St Albans campus, alongside the development of an exciting sustainable new community. The significant College facility enhancements are supported through the sale of land, to Taylor Wimpey.
These plans align with draft allocation B4 (the draft policy relating to the area proposed for residential development) and Com 1 within the emerging St Albans District Council’s new Local Plan. The emerging new Local Plan is now at an advanced stage. The proposals also align with Policy D7 within the Sandridge Neighbourhood Plan.
The College’s proposals will see the replacement of outdated facilities with sustainable, state-of-the-art buildings that will enhance learning opportunities and benefit the entire community. These proposals will be largely funded by the land sale to Taylor Wimpey.
The broader investment plan for the St Albans campus includes place-making, a revitalised campus that serves as a hub for education and creativity at the heart of the campus, a creative gateway, restoration of the Mansion House, sports facilities, improved community spaces and enhanced Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) provision with a new High Needs Centre.
What is being proposed?
Taylor Wimpey’s plans include:
- Addressing Housing Needs: The development will introduce up to 472 new, high-quality homes, including 40% affordable homes. These plans are in line with the emerging local plan for St Albans City and District Council (2024) and the Sandridge Neighbourhood Plan.
- Community Infrastructure: Recognising the importance of community facilities, Taylor Wimpey proposes the construction of a local centre, including a community space to be run by Sandridge Parish Council, fostering social interaction and providing a central hub for residents. The plans also include an extra care facility of up to 80 residential units of older persons accommodation, meeting the growing needs of the community.
- Educational Support: Taylor Wimpey’s plans include the safeguarding of land for a new primary school, ensuring that, once built by Hertfordshire County Council with financial contributions from Taylor Wimpey, there will be education provision in a sustainable position within the heart of the new community.
- Enhancing Public Spaces: Taylor Wimpey is committed to improving the quality of life for residents by creating enhanced open spaces for public enjoyment. This includes improvements to existing public rights of way and access points, biodiversity improvements, play spaces, and promoting connectivity and accessibility.
About Oaklands College
Our proud heritage and commitment to education
Founded in 1921, Oaklands College has supported thousands of students in achieving their dreams and contributing to the local community. With over 8,000 students annually, we offer a wide range of courses, including technical and vocational training, A-levels (sports focus) apprenticeships, higher education, professional and SEND.
- Our vision: To be a sustainable educational trailblazer, inspiring our learners and wider community to achieve their potential in a changing world.
- Our mission: To prepare every learner for work, a rewarding career, and life’s opportunities. By treating every student as the individual they are, with care, passion and understanding in a professional, contemporary and community-focused environment they’ll value and enjoy.
- Leading in vocational education: Our centres of excellence in fields like creative industries, sport, engineering, and construction make Oaklands a leader in education.
Why change is needed
Our plans will allow us to create a 21st-century, digitally immersive, learning environment. By replacing inadequate structures, like converted tractor sheds, with modern facilities, our aims include:
- Replacing outdated buildings: Many of our current facilities (circa 50%) no longer meet modern educational or safety standards, and are not digitally enhanced for the 21st century.
- Sustainability and an environmental focus: New buildings will align with cutting-edge environmental standards, reflecting our commitment to a greener future. We are proud that our recent Construction Centre build surpasses BREEAM standards.
- Improving community facilities: Enhanced spaces will support health and wellbeing initiatives and recreational use by local residents.
- Expanding opportunities for all: Increased accessibility and inclusion will ensure students of all ages and backgrounds can thrive.
We are proud to serve our community, with 81% of our students living close to the St Albans campus. Our plans will deliver long-term benefits, including access to education, job creation, economic prosperity and improved community resources.
Timeline
How will the project move forward
Timeline is subject to change due to planning and consultation.
December 2024
First round of community engagement.
January 2025 – March 2025
Hosted seven stakeholder meetings with local politicians and community groups.
April 2025
Second round of community engagement.
October 2025
Submit planning application to St Albans District and City Council.
2026
Expected start on site for Taylor Wimpey’s site.
2026/2027
Expected start on site for Oaklands College.
2029/2030
Expected finish date of phase one of housing on the Taylor Wimpey site.
End of 2032/2033
Expected finish date for all improvements to Oaklands College and final phase of housing.