Plans have been unveiled for the construction of up to 430 new homes to the north west of Preston. The proposed development would be situated on land between Sidgreaves Lane and William Young Way, the new east-west link road that was opened last summer.
The 22.7-hectare site in Cottam has already been identified for housing as part of a wider plan to build approximately 5,500 homes across North West Preston from the mid-2010s to the mid-2030s.
Details of the Proposed Development
Details of the scheme have come to light after developer Morris Homes approached Preston City Council to ascertain whether an environmental impact assessment (EIA) will be required as part of the full planning permission application process.
Documents submitted to the town hall’s planning department reveal that a portion of land in the north west corner of the site has been set aside for a primary school.
Primary School Provisions and Considerations
This would be one of two primary facilities proposed for North West Preston in a masterplan drawn up in 2017 to guide the extensive expansion of the area.
However, a plot reserved for the other primary school, north of Tabley Lane, remains without the proposed school, despite it being approved as part of an estate granted permission in November 2020.
Council’s Cautious Approach
This week, Lancashire County Council has been cautious regarding the expansion of primary schools within North West Preston, stating that planning must be “carefully considered”.
The council has not yet made any definitive plans to build on any specific location, as reported by Lancs Live.
Inclusion of a Linear Park
The same area’s proposed housing development is set to include a section for the envisioned ‘linear park.’
Pegasus Group, representing Morris Homes, has submitted what it calls a screening report to the city council, arguing that an Environmental Impact Assessment should not be necessary.
Screening Report Insights
The group’s documentation suggests that the anticipated development will serve as “a natural extension to the existing urban edge of Cottam”, highlighting that surrounding housebuilding has already instilled “a more urban setting” in the region.
The report goes further, affirming: “The site is not located within a sensitive area… standard mitigation measures can be adopted.”
Background and Broader Context
The 22.7-hectare site has been earmarked for housebuilding as part of the broader plan to create around 5,500 homes across North West Preston.
This expansive development initiative started in the mid-2010s and is projected to continue into the mid-2030s.
This initiative is part of a long-term vision to expand the urban footprint of Preston and accommodate growing housing needs.
Community and Social Infrastructure
Developers and local authorities are working collaboratively to ensure the development includes necessary social infrastructure.
This includes not just housing, but also educational facilities and recreational spaces to support a growing community.
The proposed housing development in North West Preston marks a significant step in the long-term vision for the area’s growth. With careful planning and consideration, the integration of social infrastructure, such as schools and parks, will be essential to accommodate and support the expanding community.
As the plans move forward, the collaboration between developers, local authorities, and the community will play a critical role in shaping the future of the region.
