Developer submits plans for £80m scheme in Preston

COTTAM Hall Properties has submitted a planning application to build an £80m mixed-use scheme at its Brickworks site in Preston.

The proposed development will feature a 47,000 sq ft Tesco supermarket and filling station, 45,000 sq ft of offices, more than 200 homes, and restaurants/pubs set around a marina and nature reserve.

The firm said that if its application is approved by Preston City Council’s planning committee on Friday, it will start work on site within six months, generating 200 jobs during the construction phase and 700 once the units are complete.

Cottam Hall Properties argued that its application is an attempt to bring forward a “sustainable” regeneration project on a derelict 28-acre site.

Chairman Ian Rankin said: “This project has been talked about for a long time but we are now at a stage whereby we are tantalisingly close to starting on site having obtained approval in principal from Preston City Council.

“If given the final go-ahead, we can start to prepare the site for this project that will bring much needed employment particularly given the current economic climate.

“The scheme is a positive step forward for Preston demonstrating how well and attractively different urban uses can complement each other.

“It has the support of all the stakeholders including Preston City Council, Lancashire County Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). All partners are very encouraged about the sustainability of the site and the positive impact it will have surrounding neighbourhoods.”

The scheme has not won universal approval, though. The site, which is 5km north of Preston City Council, is close to existing housing and 392 people have signed petitions raising concerns about the level of parking for the offices onsite.

Moreover, rival supermarket chain Morrisons has objected to the proposal, arguing there is “no clear justification” for a large out-of-centre store in the area. It also argued that the proposal could have an impact on another store being brought forward in the city centre.

Andy Taylorson, head of agency at the property consultant for the development, Eckersley, said: “Cottam Hall Brickworks has attracted a lot of interest prior to the planning application submission and we are in advanced discussions with a number of parties about acquiring elements of the development.

“This is very encouraging given the tough market conditions we are presently operating in.

“A great deal of thought and effort has gone into the scheme, ultimately delivering a very attractive investment proposition.”