Detailed plans for controversially 64 homes development in Up Holland revealed

Jan 10 2013 by Rob Pattinson, Skelmersdale Advertiser

DETAILED plans for a controversial housing development in Up Holland have now been revealed.

Last September West Lancs council approved outline plans for up to 80 homes on Chequer Lane despite strong objections from residents – and an initial application having been rejected on grounds of prematurity.

Now Wainhomes has submitted its application for reserved matters for the development. The revised scheme is for 64 two-storey family homes made up of a mix of two, three and four beds, including 30% affordable housing.

Stephen Robinson, managing director of Wainhomes, told the Advertiser: “The existing residents’ amenity has been a major factor in the design of this scheme. It has fewer houses than we originally thought but we have looked at the market and feel this is the right mix for this site. It will provide much needed family and affordable homes for local people.”

If permission is granted by the council work is likely to begin by the Summer.

But campaigner Allison McIntosh said: “We have got serious concerns about the development, we have tried to prove time and again it is unsuitable but the community of Up Holland has been ignored.

“We are not going to let this go and will continue to fight this, as well as the Local Plan policies for more development.This is the thin end of the wedge, a starting point for more development in the area."

A protest back in March saw more than a hundred residents demonstrate against the scheme, with concerns raised over loss of Green Belt, traffic and environmental concerns.

MP Rosie Cooper, who worked closely with campaigners, said: “Time and again residents have demonstrated the strength of their opposition to these plans but the council have continued to ignore their views. I would call on the planning committee to listen but sadly, I can’t see anything changing when the decision comes before [the committee] again.”