Planning sought for 268-home scheme on former colliery site

Detailed plans for up to 268 new homes at the former Pemberton Colliery site, off Smithy Brook Road in Wigan, have been submitted to regenerate the derelict site.

Wigan Council Planning Committee unanimously approved an outline planning application for residential development at the former site in July 2020, and Northstone, part of Peel L&P, has now submitted a reserved matters planning application to bring a new style of family homes to the market.

The plans will include a mix of house types and sizes to suit the needs and requirements of local people, including first time buyers, families and those looking to downsize. In addition, 35 affordable homes will be delivered in a mix of affordable rent and affordable home ownership.

The proposals for the former Pemberton Colliery site will deliver thoughtfully designed, modern homes equipped with energy saving features to help residents save money on their fuel bills, including increased insulation and Velfac aluminium/wood windows to help block outside noise.

Homes will also help keep residents safe, secure and comfortable through the provision of smart technology, to automate heating, lighting, security, music and safety, with voice control technology.

Grain 1000mb home broadband will also be live from day one. The development will encourage outward looking communities, by replacing roads and pavements with shared surfaces, removing the dominance of cars and improving safety for everyone.

The proposals will revitalise a brownfield site that has been under-utilised for decades and will help facilitate the M58 link road, a new road between Foundry Lane and the Smithy Brook Road Roundabout.

The M58 link road is a key strategic link for Wigan, with Northstone contributing more than £4m through construction and financial contributions.

The submission of the application follows an extensive public consultation, which ran between September and October 2020. In total, 206 individuals provided submissions during the consultation period, the majority of which came from those wishing to register their interest in a home on site.

Jonathan England, development director at Northstone, said: “Northstone is proud to be bringing forward proposals for a new high quality, energy efficient neighbourhood in Pemberton. Our mission is to create exceptional spaces, stylish environments, and communities where families will thrive.
“Pemberton Colliery is no exception and our vision for the site is to provide a high quality, development which delivers a true sense of community for residents.”

He added: “We received positive feedback to our recent consultation, including support for the delivery of a mix of properties, and we are confident that our plans will deliver new homes that meet Wigan’s housing needs both now and over the coming years. Furthermore, the plans will also create new jobs in the construction industry and further roles in the supply chain.”