A significant planning proposal for over 150 homes near Lancaster has emerged, replacing a previous hotel scheme.
- The applicant seeks both full and outline permissions for hybrid use of an 18-acre site.
- Concerns over traffic and visual impact have been raised by local councils and utilities.
- The proposals have been revised multiple times, reducing the number of homes from 195 to 158.
- Planning officers recommend approval, subject to legal conditions and contributions.
A new planning application has been submitted seeking approval for the construction of more than 150 homes on an 18-acre greenfield site located near Lancaster. This proposal follows the withdrawal of a previous hotel scheme aimed at the same location and is pursued by Robert Hughes of Brewers Barn, Carnforth Brow. Notably, this application includes both full and outline permissions, marking it as a hybrid application.
The local government and relevant stakeholders have raised significant concerns. The Carnforth Town Council, Electricity North West, and the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership have expressed worries about potential traffic congestion, utility strain, and the visual impact of such a development on the surrounding area. These objections have been formally submitted as part of the assessment process by Lancaster City Council.
The current proposal includes detailed plans for 71 homes, complete with necessary vehicle access, roads, junctions, and pedestrian paths, as well as provisions for drainage and earthworks to accommodate the sloping landscape. An additional application seeks outline permission to construct up to 87 more homes, alongside designated public open spaces. City councillors from Lancaster are scheduled for a site visit prior to the next planning committee meeting, reflecting the proposal’s significance.
Initial plans were more ambitious, featuring a total of 195 homes, but revisions and negotiations have led to a scale-down to 158 homes. These changes arose primarily from deficiencies in prior applications, such as issues with design, layout, and flood risk assessments. In response, the current planning report also highlights the intention for South Lakes Housing Association to acquire 21 of these homes as affordable housing units, pending approval.
Despite previous planning permission expiring, the new submission has gained momentum as planning officers are advocating for its approval, contingent on legal agreements. Proposed contributions include over £70,000 towards sports facilities at Carnforth High School, alongside conditions for 30% affordable housing in the outline element. The Lancaster City Council planning committee is set to convene shortly to deliberate on this application.
The proposed housing development signifies a strategic shift from prior plans, warranting careful review by Lancaster City Council.
