Scheme for 250 homes recommended for go-ahead

PLANS to build up to 250 homes and a sports facility in Great Harwood, Lancashire, have been recommended for approval.

The scheme would see a mix of family homes, including detached, semi-detached and bungalows, built on the seven-hectare Lyndon playing fields site in Harwood Lane, while four new sports pitches and associated changing and parking facilities would be created on a second five-hectare site 100metres away.

An existing children’s play area on the land where the homes are planned will be significantly improved and extended as part of the development.

Lancashire-based planning consultancy PWA Planning has submitted the plans on behalf of the applicant Reilly Developments.

Katie Delaney, of PWA Planning, said: “This development marks a significant investment for Great Harwood and the wider borough, giving Hyndburn a boost in terms of the number of larger family homes.

“We’ve taken on board the concerns of local residents about the loss of playing fields and the existing football pitches will be replaced with significantly upgraded facilities on the second site, bringing a wide range of community benefits.”

Great Harwood Rovers FC currently use the Lyndon playing fields, leasing them from the council which owns the site. The new FA-standard football pitches and changing facilities on the adjacent site will better support the club’s 20 youth and junior teams.

In their report to the planning committee, Hyndburn Council planning officers have recommended that both aspects of the scheme be approved. They are due to be heard by Hyndburn Council’s planning committee tomorrow (Wednesday, October 21).