A closed-loop village. The primary objective being to reconnect residents with nature. Research shows time spent in natural spaces not only benefits mental and physical well-being, but increases pro-environmental behaviour - a critical component of improving planetary health (Björklund et al., 2019).

 

The proposals challenge traditional segregated land use categories such as monoculture farmland and urban zones. Instead, focusing on integrating residential, commercial, and social spaces within regenerative agriculture.

 

Many people are unaware of the consequences of monoculture farming; which drastically reduces biodiversity, chemical fertilisers/pesticides pollute groundwater supplies and destroy soil nutrients (leading to diminishing returns), erodes soil etc.

 

Alternatively, regenerative agriculture actively enhances ecosystem services and encompasses many types of low-intervention, productive systems such as agroforestry and permaculture.

 

The development proposes controlled-environment farming (primarily aquaponics) to ensure produce requirements are met. Aquaponics implements closed-loop principles whereby the waste produced by farmed aquatic animals supplies the nutrients for plants grown hydroponically, which in turn purify the water. Hence reducing waste, food miles and water consumption and eliminating the need for chemicals, benefiting the health of the consumer and land.

 

All energy for the site is renewable, combining wind, geothermal and solar sources.

 

The development proposes to regenerate a previous open-cast mine site in Northumberland, a walk away from the stunning Druridge Bay. Providing plentiful job opportunities and amenities to the existing local community. Situated minutes from a train station on the east-coast line, providing an easy commute to Newcastle, Edinburgh and London.

 

Ultimately, our current way of living is unsustainable. Current new-build housing estates do very little to tackle this/promote a more resilient way of living. This project seeks to provoke thought and promote healthier communities which prioritise ecosystem services. Whilst improving the local economy by providing jobs and encouraging new business start-ups by constructing excellent commercial facilities to rent, therefore reducing emissions from commuting. Additionally, the scheme will tackle various social issues such as loneliness by implementing cohousing and community kitchen facilities.

 

The scheme is highly focused on wellbeing, not only are there cookery schools teaching recipes and the benefits of organic and seasonal food, but additionally the scheme features a plethora of outdoor recreational activities to truly connect residents with the landscape.