Wainhomes dealt potentially fatal blow in South Ribble 

An appeal against the authority’s refusal of the housebuilder’s plans for 100 homes off Chain House Lane has been dismissed for a second time, bringing a long-running legal battle to an end. 

“Once again it has been demonstrated that this particular proposal is entirely unsuitable for our borough,” said Paul Foster, leader of South Ribble Council. 

“We are satisfied that this matter is now closed.” 

Wainhomes’ proposals were first rejected in June 2019 when South Ribble Council said the 8.8-acre Whitestake site was protected. 

The developer subsequently appealed but a Government planning inspector backed South Ribble’s decision and Wainhomes took the matter to the High Court. 

Last August, the High Court found in favour of the developer, ruling that a second planning inquiry should be undertaken. 

However, Wainhomes attempts to have the refusal overturned for a second time have failed. 

The planning inspectorate also dismissed an application by Wainhomes for a partial award of costs against the South Ribble Council. 

“We have said all along that this isn’t an appropriate development and we are pleased to have now been vindicated on more than one occasion,” Foster added. 

“Our position has been clear and consistent; as a council we are pro-development but only when it is done in the right way and is of benefit to our residents and the wider South Ribble community.” 

Wainhomes was contacted for comment.