Plans for tram line project in Preston stalled yet again

Lincoln Shields, of Trampower, with the tram that has been stored in Preston for more than a year gathering dust, as it awaits planning permission

Councillors had been due to discuss an application for a tramway pilot scheme in Deepdale, Preston, including the re-instatement of a former railway line.

But the application was deferred at Preston Council’s latest planning committee meeting, to allow more time to “address inconsistencies” in supporting documents, and to discuss highways matters in more detail.

A late changes report to councillors from planning officers said: “The applicant has agreed a further extension of time to address inconsistencies in the supporting documents and to discuss highways matters in more detail.

“It is therefore recommended that the application be deferred for consideration at a future meeting of the planning committee.”

The deferral of the plans, including a new tram station and platform, was agreed unanimously.

Bosses behind the tram scheme now say they are optimistic their plans for the project, costing £25m including six trams, will be approved.

Trampower director Lincoln Shields said the company had been asked to modify the details of the crossing at Deepdale Mill Street, to make it safer in the eyes of council bosses.

He said: “To get the project moving, we’ve modified our design of that crossing and submitted a new drawing.” He said it had not been resolved in time for Thursday’s meeting, and Trampower agreed to a further extension of time.

Mr Shields said: “We are hopeful it will be recommended for approval.

“We’ve jumped through so many hoops and changed the design of the crossing.”