A controversial housing development in one of the most densely populated areas of Preston looks set to be given the nod by councillors.

Community Gateway are seeking to build 20 affordable homes on disused land in the St Matthew’s ward.

Advertisements

The site formerly known as Truro Place has been laid to waste since 2002 when former houses were demolished.

The plans – which were first tabled in December last year – were deferred by Preston City Council’s planning committee to have further consultation with local residents.

Paul’s Pad – as the 0.5 hectares of land is currently known – is between Bodmin Street, Frome Street and Taunton Street, and developers want to build a mixture of bungalows, three bedroom houses and four bedroom houses on the land.

In June 2002 a block of four storey flats was demolished along with seven maisonettes.

The application has stirred local feeling with 74 objections being sent to the council, including from local councillor Albert Richardson and the Friends of Fishwick and St Matthews community group.

They claim there is already too much development in the area and a lack of open space for young families and children.

St Matthew’s councillor Albert Richardson said the area needed more open spaces.

He said: “The World Health Organisation wants all large towns to make open spaces, this will improve our health. We should take the WHO’s advice.

“We have a lot of empty houses in our city but not enough empty spaces.”

Preston faces a huge demand for new affordable homes and council planning officers have recommended the scheme be approved to help beat the backlog.

The report states the scheme “would enhance the character and appearance of the area, making good use of a brownfield site, and improve crime and antisocial behaviour in the area.”

Community Gateway Association were contacted about the plans but at the time of publication had not responded to our request for a comment.

The application will be heard by the council’s planning committee on Monday 5th March at the Town Hall. You can view the application documents on the council website.

Do you live in the area? What do you think about the plans? Let us know your views in the comments below