The idea of concentrating higher density new development in the most accessible places is a central plank of planning policy, but too often the result is generic, bulky buildings that make little effort to engage with their surroundings. Several current PTE projects increase the traditional density of their very well-connected locations, while focussing on placemaking and respect for context. At Ceres, CB1, in Cambridge {below), a new quarter containing offices and homes is emerging around the railway station. PTE has designed four apartment blocks around a new park and is restoring the historic Foster's Mill. At City Park West in central Chelmsford the practice has masterplanned a 600-home mixed-use site next to rail and bus stations and is now building out the first phase, which includes 200 apartments, shops, offices and an extra-care sheltered housing facility.
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