Proposals submitted for significant redevelopment of Heysham Business Park

The redevelopment of Heysham Business Park is a step closer after the submission of plans to Lancaster City Council.

The park lies within the Heysham Gateway regeneration area which is identified by the council for major economic investment through its adopted Local Plan.

The 18 hectare employment park is on part of the Heysham Aviation Fuel Works site, which fuelled the air force during the Second World War.

Over the past 20 years it became largely dilapidated and underutilised and a focus for extensive fly tipping and antisocial behaviour.

However, in 2021 the business park was purchased by AMA FIC, part of Crown Oil, which has invested significantly to clear all the illegally tipped waste and is now seeking to deliver new high quality employment space at the site, closely aligned with the council’s ambitions to see focused employment growth in the area

The first phase of works included waste removal, refurbishment of several existing units, creation of secure compounds, security improvements and lighting on site. The next phase of works will deliver four new employment units and a new gatehouse, which will significantly improve the appearance of the site entrance and to kick-start further investment in the park.

P4 Planning is advising AMA FIC on the planning strategy to bring forward a coordinated approach to the wider site’s redevelopment, which is strategically located close to Heysham’s port and power station.

The submitted planning application represents the next step in the strategy to secure consent to carry out major redevelopment, improve security and enhance the appearance of the site.

Cllr Andrew Gardiner, of Overton Ward, said: “The Heysham Gateway area holds significant opportunities for huge inward investment, jobs and economic growth.

“The work already undertaken at Heysham Business Park to clean up the site demonstrates the new landowners’ commitment, and this latest application for new employment space represents a fantastic opportunity to bring investment to the area. We hope it will become a catalyst for further regeneration in the area.”

Bill Davidson, managing director at P4 Planning, said: “AMA FIC has acquired this dilapidated employment site and through their energy and investment, is giving it a new lease of life, which is a pragmatic way to deliver economic growth and presents significant environmental benefits.

“Brownfield sites like this inherently bring site constraints that need a collaborative approach to overcome, and we look forward to working with the council to achieve regeneration of this strategically placed business park.”

P4 Planning is working with architects Bate and Taylor, SCP Transport, Cudd Bentley, E3P, and Gravitate Consulting.