Experts help in Preston housing zone boost

The city was last year declared a “housing zone” with more than 750 homes to be built, following a £165,000 boost from the government.

Six sites have so far been earmarked to develop hundreds of homes, with work to begin on bringing empty buildings and brownfield sites back into use for housing.

Now consultants Cushman & Wakefield has been appointed by Preston Council to help prepare a portfolio to boost the delivery of the homes.

Their “city centre living strategy” will promote the city, specifically the identified housing zone sites, as key locations for development.

The work will set a “framework for development”, and will highlight opportunities to develop the private rented sector, build-to-rent markets, student accommodation and homes for sale.

Preston Council leader Peter Rankin said: “This is a key appointment and critical to our plans for the future development of Preston city centre. 

“It’s about making it as easy as possible for investors and developers to invest. About marketing the city and making it clear that Preston is a fantastic location to live and work. 

“That now’s the time to invest in Preston. 

“The opportunity is there, the infrastructure is there and the will to make it happen is there from all partners and the local business community too.” 

Caroline Baker, director of development consulting at the firm, said: “We are really excited to be using the expertise we have gained over the last 10 years advising public sector partners in Manchester to support Preston to transform its residential offer.”

The re-development project includes plans for 45 homes at the site of the former Tulketh High School, 150 homes at Argyll Road, 81 homes at the former St Joseph’s Orphanage in Mount Street, 232 homes at Winckley Square, 200 at the site of Avenham Street Car Park, and 68 homes at the former Alliance Mill off New Hall Lane.