New employment park in Preston could offer 1,000-plus jobs
and live on Freeview channel 276
But developers wanting to build a 65-acre extension to the Preston East development off Bluebell Way have been told they must commission a study into its impact on the environment before they can even lodge a planning application.
The park, which would include up to 80,000 square metres of industrial and logistics buildings, has been earmarked for farmland directly opposite the James Hall distribution complex on Bowland View.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe city council has ordered an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) after hearing the development would have “the potential for a significant adverse effect on ecology and biodiversity” in the area.
A report by a planning officer says: “The development would potentially be highly visible over a wide area, including open countryside to the north.”
Built near to the M6 junction 31a, it could result in “significant adverse effects” on the highway network.
But Phil Cousins, the council’s development management team leader, said: “The proposed development would bring direct and indirect investment and employment benefits to Preston.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdA planning consultant told the council: “We would normally expect a development on this scale to support in excess of 1,000 jobs and the site would operate on a 24/7 basis.”
Grimsargh Parish Council says it has “some concerns over the possible height of the buildings” as well as traffic in an area where there is gridlock at peak times.
Thanks for reading. If you value the work our professional journalists do, trying to keep you informed of what is happening in your area, then please consider subscribing to our unrivalled online service. Try us today by clicking here