Aughton residents’ group to meet to discuss consultation reponse over potential release of land on Parrs Lane in Local Plan

Aug 16 2012 by Rob Pattinson, Ormskirk Advertiser

RESIDENTS are to meet to discuss a response to the Local Plan document over the potential release of Green Belt land for housing in Aughton.

Within the plan document, which is now out to consultation until October 5, the fields at the top end of Parrs Lane would be set aside for the development of up to 200 houses as one of the Plan B sites that could be released in 2017 or 2022 if Plan A sites do not meet housing delivery targets.

The Aughton Residents Group is to hold a public meeting at Aughton Village Hall from 7.15pm on Wednesday August 22 to discuss its response before the plan is sent to the planning inspector who will scrutinise the document and the responses submitted with it. Members of the group said they were concerned that Plan B sites such as Parrs Lane could “slip through under the radar” and urged people to attend the meeting to ensure that they have their say on the issue.

Colin Atkinson, of the group, said: “It’s the first time this piece of land has been recommended for removal from the Green Belt. Once it’s gone I don’t think it will ever be put back. We have said from the outset it’s unsuitable for development. It’s grade one farmland, there are concerns over flooding, transport, the demand on schools.

“We want anyone who cares about this issue, or who has a knowledge of planning laws who can assist us in our response to come to the meeting. Cllr Ian Grant has agreed to attend and we have extended the invitation to members of the parish council.

“It’s our last opportunity to present a case demonstrating the unsuitability of the proposals.”

The group has submitted a list of 29 questions to the council, which are available along with the responses to any interested parties by contacting Colin on 01695 421 603 or by emailing colinandgill@uwclub.net