Redrow wins appeal for 330 Preston homes

HOUSEBUILDER Redrow has won the right to build 330 homes north of Preston following an appeal.

It applied for permission to build on 35 acres of agricultural land at Lightfoot Lane, Fulwood. The proposal is the first phase of a larger plan for 800 houses, a school and shops.

But the scheme attracted opposition from nearby residents and local parish councils who were against the loss of rural land and feared greater traffic congestion.

Planning officers recommended the development was refused but the city’s planning committee did not make a decision within the 13-week period required leading to the appeal.

The inspector backed Redrow’s appeal saying the area was identified as a prime site for development in a local plan.

He said: “The council accepts that the principle of residential development on the site is not, and has not been, an issue. What has exercised it is not whether the site should be released for housing but when and how it would integrate effectively with the rest of the North West Preston Strategic Location (NWPSL) without placing an excessive burden on existing infrastructure, especially the highway network.”

After considering the traffic implications he decided that, “allowing the proposal on the appeal site now would not unacceptably compromise comprehensive development within the wider area”.

Robin Buckley, senior planning manager for Redrow Homes (Lancashire), said: “The development will enable us to deliver much-needed high-quality family homes in Preston and will also contribute towards the provision of infrastructure in the North Preston area.  

“The detailed design of the scheme will reflect Preston City Council’s emerging masterplan for North West Preston and is likely to be submitted early next year.”

Planning consultancy Turley Associates acted on behalf of Redrow Homes.