Plans submitted for Sustainable Neighbourhood as part of South Yorkshire Airport City Vision
An artist’s impression of the proposed Hurstwood neighbourhood highlights its mix of public spaces and green corridors designed to enhance community wellbeing.
Peel Land has submitted plans to City of Doncaster Council for Hurstwood, a landmark sustainable neighbourhood set to play a critical role in delivering the South Yorkshire Airport City (SYAC) vision. This ambitious proposal is a key step towards unlocking significant economic growth, creating jobs, and supporting the re-opening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport.
The 177-acre site, east of Hurst Lane and north of the A638 Great North Road, has been designed to integrate seamlessly with the planned employment zone to the east to be known as Innovation Quarter, and Central Plaza a new town centre, both of which already have planning consent. Together, these developments aim to deliver a dynamic, mixed-use destination that combines housing, infrastructure, and vibrant public spaces.
Two planning applications have been submitted, each providing an alternative development option for the whole site, one for around 1,200 homes, the other around 1,400. Submission marks a critical milestone in realising the SYAC vision, which aims to deliver economic growth, create jobs, and re-open Doncaster Sheffield Airport
Both options propose a first phase of around 280 – 300 homes in the northern part of the site accessed from Hurst Lane. Bringing forward the residential element of the masterplan strengthens the project's commitment to sustainable development and regional prosperity
The proposed neighbourhood reflects Peel Land’s focus on sustainable growth and placemaking, with key features including:
Active travel connectivity: A network of foot and cycle paths linking homes, workplaces, and the town centre, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing car dependency.
Biodiversity enhancement: Preservation and improvement of local woodlands, including Hurst Wood and Finningley Big Wood, to protect habitats and increase green infrastructure.
Community-focused design: Leisure spaces, nature areas and accessible public amenities to foster a vibrant and inclusive neighbourhood.
Stephen Wild, Managing Director at Peel Land commented: “Hurstwood represents a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering transformational developments across the North. By combining sustainable design, community-focused spaces and enhanced connectivity, we are not only supporting the South Yorkshire economy but also creating a high-quality place where people can thrive.”
A public consultation held in November 2024 engaged over 2,000 visitors via the project website and received 255 survey responses. This valuable feedback has been instrumental in shaping the final proposals.
As part of Peel Land’s broader commitment to regional growth, Hurstwood will complement the wider SYAC vision, supporting Doncaster’s housing needs while enhancing infrastructure and creating new opportunities for local businesses and residents. This represents the largest and most exciting development opportunity in the South Yorkshire MCA area. The development has the potential to be a world class, globally recognised destination for people to live, learn, work, visit and play.
