The company behind Slough's historic Horlicks factory redevelopment is to contribute £5.25m towards the council's ambitious town centre regeneration plans.

A 'section 106' agreement finally hammered out this week with Slough Borough Council will see Berkeley Homes contribute £2.1million towards improving roads and public transport in the borough as well as providing electric vehicle charging hubs.

There will be £2million contributed towards education facilities, £492,411 to improve local parks such as Salt Hill Park including biodiversity enhancements - as well as over one and a half million towards training and employment initiatives.

The agreement has coincided with the final detailed approval from Slough Council's planning department for Berkeley Homes to create 1,300 new residences on the Horlicks site incorporating 325 affordable homes of mixed tenure - including shared ownership.

The Horlicks plan will see the iconic factory building retained and restored.

A pedestrian cycle link, public open spaces with shops, nursery and a cafe and 'bee hotels' are also part of the package.

Deana Everingham, regional sales and marketing director Berkeley Homes said: “Slough Borough Council is driving an ambitious regeneration programme and we look forward to collaborating with them and local residents to shape a fantastic new neighbourhood and help Slough deliver their vision.

"Our focus is on placemaking, not just housebuilding. We are delighted to have this opportunity to transform such an iconic building with years of heritage, into a vibrant new community."

Josie Wragg, chief executive of Slough Borough Council said: “The regeneration of the town centre area is gathering pace and we are excited for this development and the future of the whole area. The 106 contributions that Berkeley are making will help make significant improvements to our local infrastructure.”

Berkeley Homes is currently carrying out enabling works on-site at Horlicks, in order to start the new development shortly.

The company plans to release the first phase of homes for sale in Autumn 2020 with the opening of an onsite marketing suite.