Landmark schemes get go-ahead in Preston

THREE landmark schemes in Preston have been given planning approval by city councillors.

A new student village creating high quality accommodation on Fylde Road, a short distance from the University of Central Lancashire campus has been given the go-ahead.

The project will see the existing Fylde Road Industrial Estate converted into 44 self-contained studio apartments, including one and two bedroom properties and also provide facilities including a bike store, laundry, shared communal facilities and a 24-hour concierge system.

The student village, presented to the council by architectural and planning consultancy Cassidy & Ashton which has offices in Preston and Chester, will be ready for occupation in September 2016.

Approval has also been given to a district centre in Cottam, in the north west area of Preston.

Spanning almost 15 acres, plans for Cottam Brickworks District Centre include 64,574 sq ft of retail space, as well as food and drink outlets, a petrol filling station and plentiful parking.

The scheme will deliver new improved access from Tom Benson Way and traffic disruption will be kept to a minimum thanks to off-site works being carried out at Ingol Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).

Cassidy & Ashton has designed the project in conjunction with planning consultants De Pol Associates and on behalf of Cottam Hall Properties.

Councillors have also given the thumbs up to new Vauxhaull, Kia and Mazda showrooms, as well as ancillary servicing and parking facilities to be developed for Perry’s at Bluebell Way Business Park, Fulwood, providing the vehicle retailer with new purpose-built accommodation.

The development, also presented by Cassidy & Ashton, will see Perry’s relocate its current operations at Blackpool Road and the new premises occupying a 4.60 acre site, is expected to be fully operational by Easter 2016.

Alistair Baines, chairman at Cassidy & Aston, said: “These three schemes will deliver an abundance of employment opportunities over the coming years and deliver retail and accommodation space that is much needed in the city.

“We’re delighted that these schemes can now move forward and are proud to be working with our clients and supply chain to make improvements in Preston so it is more appealing to students and visitors who may otherwise consider the likes of Manchester or Liverpool.”