Knowsley consults on LDO for industrial and business park

The council has drafted a local development order to grant automatic planning consent for certain types of schemes in Knowsley industrial and business park.

The draft LDO proposes that planning permission is given for extensions or alterations to existing buildings, change of use of buildings, the erection of higher fences around a site, the installation of CCTV, bike shelters and work to support the development of an energy network on site.

All of the developments will be subject to certain restrictions and limitations to ensure they consider environmental factors, neighbouring properties and nearby residential areas.

Knowsley Council said the LDO will support businesses who may want to expand or develop by simplifying and streamlining the planning process.

Knowsley Industrial and Business Park is the largest industrial area in the Liverpool city region and second largest park of its kind in the North West after Trafford Park. It covers an area of approximately 1200 acres, is home to 800 businesses and 15,000 employees.

The council is currently holding a formal consultation on the draft LDO. All comments must be received in writing by 12 noon on Tuesday 21 October.

Cllr Dave Lonergan, Knowsley's cabinet member for regeneration, economy and skills, said: "The LDO reflects our determination to support local businesses and do what we can to encourage growth in the local economy.

"We hope that by simplifying the planning process, we are removing barriers to development by improving the speed, consistency and effectiveness of the process and preventing any unnecessary delays."

To view the LDO document and for information about how to make a formal comment, visit www.knowsley.gov.uk/localplan.