Plans for hundreds of homes along with commercial space have been submitted by Stevenage Borough Council to regenerate an area called The Oval.

The hybrid applications seeks outline permission for up to 250 flats, 1,200 sq m of mixed use commercial (Class E), parking and new public realm and up to 2,870 sq m of retail including a supermarket.

It seeks full permission for 91 independent living homes with communal facilities including a community building/place of worship, along with further new public realm. The overall scheme will include a 25 per cent proportion of affordable homes.

The run down site of 3.97 hectares is bounded by Verity Way (A1155), Vardon Road, Jessop Road and open spaces.

The application's planning statement states: "The regeneration of The Oval will contribute to building a strong, responsive, and competitive economy through providing opportunities for small local businesses to continue to meet the needs of local residents.

"The provision and phasing of the development is key to providing certainty into the future. Moreover, the improvements to the public realm may enhance opportunities for smaller businesses to base themselves at The Oval."