Hollins Strategic Land have secured outline planning permission for the construction of a mini neighbourhood on open countryside off Garstang Road.
Despite facing opposition from Preston City Council, the Planning Inspectorate ruled in favour of the company, overturning objections raised against developing the six-acre site. The primary point of contention revolved around the site’s location on open countryside, with the council rejecting the application in both January and April 2023, citing concerns about its impact on the landscape.
However, the inspector deemed that building on the site would not adversely affect the area’s scenery, particularly as it borders the 97-home Bank Hall Barn site. Furthermore, the inspector acknowledged Preston’s ample housing land supply but noted that the proposed development would enhance the range and choice in the pipeline supply.
The development plan includes provisions for 20 affordable homes and five homes designated for individuals over the age of 55, with two wheelchair-accessible homes among the 51 proposed dwellings.
Hollins Strategic Land credits NJL Consulting for navigating the planning process, while Sedgewick Associates crafted the application’s design and access statement. The project team also includes Kathryn Sather and Associates, Enzygo, and ERAP.
For further details, interested parties can access the outline application documents using reference number 06/2023/0030 on Preston City Council’s planning portal. Additionally, appeal papers are available under reference number APP/N2345/W/23/3330709 on the Planning Inspectorate’s website.