Homes in rural Preston turned down for second time

An application for up to 26 homes off Pudding Pie Nook Lane in Goosnargh had been rejected by Preston Council’s planning committee, and revised plans for up to 24 homes were resubmitted.

But the proposal was once again rejected, over fears the estate would be “car dependant” and not constitute sustainable development.

Agent Katie Delaney said: “This resubmission of a previously refused application has sought to address many of the points raised by the members last year.”

She said the development would include affordable and starter homes, hoped to “keep young people and families in the rural villages”.

But Preston Rural North councillor Lona Smith said very little had changed since the previous application was refused, and said it was an “accident waiting to happen”.

She said the proposed homes were in an “unsustainable location” and urged the committee to refuse the plans.

Chairman Coun Brian Rollo said he didn’t regard the development as sustainable, and said it was a “car-driven” location.

He said: “For that reason and that reason alone, I think I can object to this and I will therefore propose refusal.”

Officers had recommended the plans for approval, and deputy director of development Alison Kershaw, said: “We do not have a five-year supply of housing land.

“This site would make a contribution to the council’s supply of housing land, and that is a significant material consideration in terms of considering this application.”