Picturesque Lancashire village 'under threat' as residents hit back at housing plans
Residents of Mawdesley are voicing strong opposition to a proposed housing development, which they claim ‘threatens’ the village's character and environment.
In February, pwa planning submitted proposals to Chorley Council for the development of dozens of homes and associated works on land north of New Street, Mawdesley.
The plans, submitted on behalf of Applethwaite Homes, would see the the erection of up to 78 dwellings at land north east of and adjacent to The Millenium Green, Hurst Green, near to Mawdesley Village Hall, the Bowling Green, Tennis Club, and St Peter’s C of E Primary School.
According to the Design & Access Statement, the scheme aims to provide ‘new high quality family homes’ comprising a mix of homes ranging from one to four bedrooms. These are presented in detached, semi-detached, terraced and apartment properties.
Each home would also have at least two car parking spaces, and an publicly accessible informal open space would be provided.
The applicant said it believes the site falls within ‘the definition of grey belt land’, which refers to land which does not strongly support some of the key purposes of Green Belt designation or has previously been developed.
The applicant added: “Our approach to the design of the scheme has been led by technical consultants who understand the context of the site and the surrounding area. We truly believe we have designed a scheme which goes above and beyond the needs of future residents, whilst helping Chorley Council to meet their housing aspirations.
“The site is well located to achieve all of this, and we can’t wait to bring it to life.”
However, local residents have hit back at the plans claiming that the “peaceful character of one of Lancashire’s most picturesque villages is under threat”.
Around 170 objections have been lodged, with residents concerned about the potential impact on the Millennium Green - a cherished community space used by dog walkers, families, and nature enthusiasts.
Campaigners warn that the development would “not only destroy the physical landscape but would permanently alter the rural soul of the area”, as well as impacting local widlife such as Roe deer, Tawny owls, and a variety of protected mammals.
One local resident, Lisa Thompson, said: "This isn't just about losing a field. This is about the land behind Hurst Green that our children play near and our wildlife calls home.
“Once you pave over the Green Belt, there is no going back. We are standing with our neighbours to ensure future generations can enjoy the same Mawdesley we do."
Beyond the environmental concerns, residents are worried about the village’s ability to cope with a sudden population spike. They noted potential problems such as increased traffic on the narrow rural lanes near to the school, pressure on the primary school and GP surgeries, and the loss of natural soakaway land.
As well as objections from residents, Lancashire County Council has objected to the plans on the basis of secondary school places. However, it noted that the objection will be withdrawn if the education requirements detailed in its response are met - notably the cost of 17 additional secondary places.
An objection was also received from the Environment Agency, noting: “We have reviewed the FRA in so far as it relates to our remit, and we are not satisfied that the development would be safe without exacerbating flood risk elsewhere if the proposed flood risk mitigation measures are implemented. In the absence of an acceptable flood risk assessment (FRA), we object to this application.”
It is understood that Mawdesley Parish Council objects to the proposals.
Residents can comment on the proposals until March 20. They will then be considered by Chorley Council’s planning committee.
Lisa added: “The deadline is critical. Don't wait—if we don't speak up now, the village we love will be changed forever."
Mawdesley Parish Council and Applethwaite Homes have been approached for comment.