M J GLEESON HOMES PROPOSAL - UPDATE

A consultation event to showcase a proposed development at the vacant land along Parker Street attracted plenty of interest from Rishton residents and the plans were generally favourably received.

The event was hosted by M J Gleeson who will shortly be submitting a full planning application for 75 houses on the site with access off Parker Street and Wheatfield Street. The Rishton Councillors have previously made it clear that social housing would not be welcome and this has been incorporated into the designs which were on display.

Cllr Clare Cleary, Cabinet member for Housing and Regeneration, said, "Almost everyone who has seen the plans today thought that they were good and it seems to have allayed a few fears about what will eventually be built there. I'm also glad that we have taken the time over the Canal Masterplan because it has not only generated renewed interest in the vacant sites but is shaping the plans which are being put in front of us to suit the people of Rishton."

Cllr Ken Moss said, "The plans were for 100% affordable housing costing between £80,000 and £120,000 with various help-to-buy schemes put on the table as well. The costings have been drawn up so that 90% of working couples who currently live in Rishton will be able to afford ones of these properties. These developers clearly believe in home ownership rather than rented housing and that can only be a good thing."

Cllr Harry Grayson said, "There is a lot of thought gone into this and I am pleased to see that the site won't be crammed full of houses. They are all good sized family homes with front and rear gardens and driveways plus the development will incorporate enhancement along the canalside. Thumbs up from me."

County Councillor Miles Parkinson, also Cabinet member for Planning, said, "As with all developments, detailed studies will be done concerning the impact on the roads and utilities, plus schools, doctors and emergency services. It is standard in these cases for considerable contributions to be made to accommodate services for an increased population."

Prospective Labour candidate, Jeff Scales, said, "I was impressed with the plans the development makes much more sense than simply leaving an eyesore. The developers said they will be using local tradesmen to do all the work as they are more reliable and it will also provide increased tax revenue to the Council at a time when investment is badly needed. I hope it also gives a boost to trade at the Free Gardeners Club and the local shops." 

A full planning application is expected to be submitted within the next month or so.