Date set for Cottam Hall decision
Plans for an £80m regeneration project on the site of the former Cottam Hall brickworks in Preston go to planning committee at the end of November.
Preston City Council's planning members will discuss the application by Cottam Hall Properties on 30 November. Officers are yet to submit their report to recommend approval or refusal and are still to iron out issues over ecology at the brownfield site with the developers.
The derelict 28 acres comprise one of Preston's largest strategic sites. If built, the project will deliver a Tesco store of 47,000 sq ft, 155 apartments overlooking the Marina, 17 three-storey townhouses, and 20 two-storey family homes. There will also be a business park of 45,060 sq ft and ancillary restaurants and shops.
Ian Rankin, chairman of Cottam Hall Properties, the developer behind the project added: "If planning permission is granted in November, we can be on the ground in January starting to prepare the site for this project that will bring much needed employment particularly given the current economic climate.
"It's also a positive step forward for Preston, especially after doubts have been raised regarding Tithebarn which I hope will go ahead. While not to be compared to Tithebarn , the Cottam scheme is substantial; it is 'real' and it is ready to start. We just need that vital green light at the November's planning meeting.
"We have taken a long time in making sure this development is thoroughly thought out and has the support of all the stakeholders including Lancashire County Council and the Homes & Communities Agency. All partners are very encouraged about the sustainability of the site and the positive impact it will have surrounding neighbourhoods."
Cottam Hall Properties is a joint venture between John Clarke, managing director of John Turner & Sons, and Ian Rankin, former chairman of John Turner. The JV has owned the site for 12 years.
John Turner & Sons, which employs 250 people in Preston and Manchester, will deliver the project as the main contractor. Eckersley is letting agent on Cottam Hall.
