New local centre for Cottam approved

Preston City Council's planning committee approved the plans for land west of Sandy Lane.

The application is for the erection of a local centre including flexible floorspace, drinking establishments and hot food takeaways, a medical centre, a public house with hotel accommodation, and retirement apartments.

The applicant is Wainhomes (North West) Limited

Planning officer Jonathan Evans said some concerns had been raised over the proposed layout of the scheme - in that it was more in keeping with a retail park.

But he stressed this was just an outline application - and the detail would be scrutinised later

The application site is located on the west side of Sandy Lane, north of the proposed East West Link Road.

It is currently agricultural land which forms the central and south eastern section of land with planning permission for up to 230 dwellings.

Coun Peter Moss said there had been concerns raised over drainage in the area - with flooding issues on highways and in residential gardens.

The meeting heard that these were being addressed with various parties, including United Utilities.

It was hoped that a medical centre would form part of the final plan, but there was no guarantee.

Members approved the application, with conditions.