The Diglis Canal Basin was the principal wharf area for the city of Worcester in the early 19th century, but with the declining use of the waterways the area became neglected and derelict. The site offered the opportunity for new homes, within a mile of the city centre, in an attractive waterside setting. However, the river presented problems of flood risk and it was expected that planning permission would be difficult to obtain.

In 1999 Bryant Homes/Taylor Wimpey, in partnership with British Waterways, commissioned LDA Design to prepare a landscape masterplan for a mixed-use site in order to overcome this potential constraint upon development. The appointment of a landscape architect ensured a cohesive design and a means of achieving planning permission due to the landscape practice’s understanding of flood risk and alleviation.At the same time, the character of the wider setting was also considered, to ensure that the development knitted into the existing urban fabric. The strategy behind the masterplan recognises the importance of the appearance of the built environment and how this can transform people’s attitudes toward their homes and communities. The quality of the external environment was carefully considered, to ensure that the land in which the buildings are situated is attractive, valued and useable.