Bovis Homes is in talks with South Ribble Council over re-developing the former Vernon Carus factory in Factory Lane, Penwortham, near Preston.

The public will be asked for their views early next year, before a planning application is submitted for the 23 hectare site at the end of January.

It is hoped the development will secure the future of the Vernon Carus Sports Club.

David Shard, regional managing director of Bovis Homes, said: "We want to breathe new life into this disused factory site and provide a wide range of housing and employment opportunities to help meet the needs of the local community.

"In addition, we want to retain the significant recreation area around the reservoir and help secure the future of the existing sports club, which has huge potential to become a fantastic community club."

The site currently consists of the former Vernon Carus factory buildings, some existing houses, a reservoir, pasture land, sports fields and associated club buildings.

Wendy Gudger, development control manager at South Ribble Council, said that public consultation would be an important part of the plan and added: "They might go back and make changes, it will not be just to pay lip service."

Middleforth councillor Jim Hothersall, said: "I am in favour of it, provided it is the right sort of housing.

"Personally, I want to see some executive-type housing so we can attract the luxury business type entrepreneurs to Preston, so they can spend some of their money here."