Blackburn kick-starts delivery of 1,500 homes
LK Group has begun a four-week programme of site investigation works at a 214-acre plot earmarked in the local authority’s local plan for an urban extension.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has identified the land north of Whalley Old Road as a key housing growth site that could deliver 690 homes by 2037, and a further 810 in the years beyond.
Bury-based LK Group won the council’s tender and will ensure the stability of the foundations and remove potential hazards, allowing the local authority to allay safety concerns and take the project forward.
As the largest stakeholder in the land with 45%, Blackburn with Darwen Council is directing regeneration proceedings and expects to bring the site to market by late 2026.
The North East Blackburn Strategic Housing Site, as it is known, expects the delivery of 30 homes by the end of 2026, 300 by 2031, and a further 360 by the end of 2037.
Colin Crompton, director at LK Group, said winning the tender to bring forward needed housing has given the company and team “a real sense of pride”, and commended the council for its ambition.
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Alongside homes, the local plan states land should be reserved for a primary healthcare facility – such as a GP or dentist – however, its necessity will remain under review.
It also identified a lack of public open space in Blackburn and states future development proposals should seek to address “deficiencies wherever possible”.
In addition, the development will require the incorporation of a local centre, which could host retail units and community spaces.
Blackburn with Darwen Council consulted on a masterplan for the site last year. Its wider local plan targets the delivery of 7,000 properties to the town.
