Controversial 270 Lancashire homes plans thrown out

The decision meant a dramatic U-turn as the plans for 270 homes in the village of Nateby, near Garstang, were originally recommended for approval.

The decision prompted loud applause from the 90 people spectating the Wyre Council planning meeting at the Civic Centre in Poulton-le-Fylde on Wednesday.

The outline plans, which were rejected on the grounds of road safety, were proposed for land to the west of the A6 bounded by Crossing Lane and Croston Barn Lane in Nateby.

The full proposal was for up to 270 houses, 30 per cent of which would have been affordable, as well as 4.68 hectares of employment space, a convenience store and a coffee shop.

Wyre Council received 366 letters of objection and 18 people stood and spoke to oppose the plans at the meeting.

These included Garstang Mayor Lynn Harter, Garstang GP Grace Marshall and Garstang retained firefighter Stephen Lowe, who raised issues of road safety, the impact on the rural character, taking business away from local shops, the lack of need for more houses and the additional strain on local amenities.

Two people spoke on 
behalf of the applicants, J Chippendale Ltd, including agent Paul Stephenson, who said: “It is good there are so many people taking an interest in this proposal.

“The application remains flexible and has been in the works for over four years.

“If approved, I believe it would be of huge benefit for the whole borough.”

Several councillors then spoke to thank those who had spoke for their “compelling arguments” including councillor for Preesall, Philip Orne, who said: “I can’t support this, I don’t want blood on my hands if any accident happens.”

J Chippendale Ltd can now appeal the decision.