Plans for a new housing development are replacing a scrapped hotel project in Carnforth.
- The development will include over 150 homes, subject to full and outline planning permission.
- Objections have arisen from local councils and environmental groups due to traffic and visual concerns.
- The site has been controversial with planning negotiations spanning over a decade.
- Lancaster councillors will soon assess the application at a scheduled site visit.
A notable development is underway as a proposal for over 150 homes in Carnforth, near Lancaster, replaces a previously planned multi-million pound hotel scheme. The applicant, Robert Hughes of Brewers Barn, seeks comprehensive planning permission for this hybrid application stretching over an 18-acre greenfield area known as Brewers.
The proposal, however, has encountered resistance. Key objectors include Carnforth Town Council, Electricity North West, and the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership. Their concerns predominantly focus on the potential impact on local traffic, utilities, and the environment.
The application, under consideration by Lancaster City Council, consists of detailed plans for 71 homes with new access roads and pedestrian pathways, along with an outline proposal for an additional 87 homes accompanied by public open spaces. The proposed site is strategically located between Whernside Grove, Browfoot Close and adjacent to the A6070.
The evolution of the plan has been marked by several revisions, particularly a decrease in the number of dwellings from 195 to 158. This reduction came after addressing critical design and layout issues, flood risk assessments, and implementing a flood risk sequential test, as reported to Lancaster’s planning committee.
Included in the planning are 21 affordable housing units, with South Lakes Housing Association lined up as a partner for acquisition, ensuring a mix of housing options. The plans also account for essential infrastructure like earth levelling, waterways culverts, and retaining walls, necessary due to the site’s topography.
The site has had multiple planning proposals over the past decade, including an ambitious marina and hotel project, which were withdrawn. Eventually, after overcoming numerous objections, planning permission for 158 dwellings was granted. Current proposals include a roundabout to ease traffic, which was influenced by county council discussions.
Planning officers are advising the city councillors to approve the plans, pending legal agreements. These comprise financial contributions, including £70,000 towards local sports facilities and conditions for affordable housing. The upcoming committee meeting at Morecambe Town Hall will be decisive in moving the project forward.
The housing development proposal in Carnforth is set to reshape the area, pending council approval amidst ongoing planning discussions.
