Councillors have unanimously approved plans for a six-storey office building at HUB and Smedvig’s One Maidenhead scheme.
The site already has permission for a seven-storey building but the developer has gone back to the Royal Borough with a redesigned scheme at the development, previously known as The Landing.
The council’s Maidenhead development control panel approved the new scheme on April 17.
The timber framed building, named Trehus (Norwegian for wood), will be the first of its kind in the Thames Valley and is targeting BREEAM Outstanding.
It aims to achieve low levels of energy use while the timber structure reduces embodied carbon by 40 per cent compared to a concrete frame. The façade is designed to reduce solar gain while maximising natural light,
There will be a roof terrace as well as enhanced public spaces with rain gardens, biodiverse planting and outdoor seating.
HUB and Smedvig hope to start construction later this year, with a view to delivering the completed scheme by the end of 2026.
One Maidenhead also incorporates 429 new Build-to-Rent homes, ground floor retail space and public realm, all of which were completed earlier this month. Those elements were designed by Studio Egret West, and are owned and managed by Get Living.
Victoria Manston, development director of HUB, said: “Trehus will be a brilliant addition to Maidenhead town centre, providing much-needed high-quality office space in an inherently sustainable building. The use of timber will create an elegant addition to the streetscape, as well as a calm and comforting environment for its workers.
“As the first phase of One Maidenhead completes, we’re excited to see this new neighbourhood come to life – welcoming new residents, providing new amenities to the local community and supporting the local economy. Securing planning approval for Trehus is an important next step on this journey, and we look forward to continuing work with our project partners to turn our vision into a reality.”
Cecilie W Melbye, chief executive of Smedvig Eiendom AS, said: “Having recently completed the first phase of One Maidenhead, Smedvig is excited to continue the area regeneration by bringing forward a high-quality office building to the scheme and Maidenhead town centre.
“Timber can provide a natural and good environment for the people working in the building, a visually appealing supplement to the town, as well as low carbon footprint in a sustainability aspect. We are excited by the prospects of this project and look forward to seeing it realised together with our partners.”
Trehus is to be marketed by Savills and Hollis Hockley.
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