A town appears to be split after concerns were raised over potential new homes on disused land.
The ECHO previously reported how opinions appeared to be divided on the potential for over 700 new homes on the land south of Cherryfield Drive in Kirkby. Despite some saying that affordable housing and investment was "needed" in the town, others were concerned over surrounding infrastructure not being "fit for purpose".
One ECHO reader has since added: "Knocked down perfectly good houses on Cherryfield where local people were happy to live, to build new houses and I bet the new houses won't even be offered to the people of Kirkby." Another said it was "great" as the country has "huge housing problems".
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Taking to social media to express their opinions, some residents said they would like to see "more bungalows for disabled and elderly", whereas another said Kirkby was going to be "one big housing estate".
However, as the town appears to remain split on the decision, concerns were raised that work had already started on the site, despite "not informing local residents". Developers Barratt Developments and David Wilson Homes have been carrying out survey works at the site, including ground investigation works and some vegetation clearance.
But Knowsley council confirmed that this work is "needed so that some ground investigations can be carried out to inform any future proposals for the site". They added that as of yet, no planning application has been submitted as developers are using the findings from a recent consultation to "refine their plan". A consultation was held in August and September.
A spokesperson added: "Prior to making a planning application, potential planning applicants can apply to the Council for an opinion on whether a possible development should be subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment. When making such an application, the developer has to set out a map to identify the land in question alongside a brief description of the proposed development.
"Barratt Developments and David Wilson Homes have recently submitted such a request, but this is not a planning application. Once plans have been developed by Barratt Developments and David Wilson Homes, there will be further opportunities for the public to view any such plans and share their views prior to the plans being considered by the Council’s Planning Committee."
What is the potential development?
Back in 2020, Kirkby residents were asked for their views on what the town needed, with suggestions for new businesses, parking and enhanced CCTV network. More housing was also welcomed with residents outlining the need for affordable homes.
According to Knowsley Council's latest planning applications, Barratt and David Wilson Homes are scoping opinion for the development of 720 dwellings and an extra care facility together with landscaping, infrastructure and other associated works, including an extension to the existing car park to create an additional 130 spaces
Knowsley council said initial proposals outlined:
- 796 new homes – 73 affordable two- and three-bedroomed homes, a 66-home affordable extra care scheme, and 657 market homes for sale. This would equate to provision of 18% affordable homes, which significantly exceeds the Council’s 10% planning policy requirement.
- The affordable homes being split on a 75% affordable rent/25% shared ownership basis.
- The market homes for sale comprising 15 five-bedroomed homes, 372 four-bedroomed homes, 207 three-bedroomed homes, and 63 two-bedroomed homes.
- All new homes meeting Energy Performance Certificate Rating “A” as a minimum.
- Strong pedestrian links to Kirkby Town Centre and its existing/proposed new amenities.
- Integrated movement for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles through the site and to the wider area.
- A number of open space areas which would be well located and well overlooked.
- Landscaped “green edges” with a variety of planting options which enhance biodiversity.
- Provision to enhance the existing public open space.
Initial proposals also include the creation of apprenticeships and work experience placements.
However, addressing concerns on surrounding infrastructure, the council confirmed that due to no planning application being submitted, their cannot be a full assessment on the impact of any such plans, but when one is submitted, they will take into account infrastructure such as open spaces, schools, health facilities, roads and transport links.
A spokesperson for Barratt Homes Manchester and David Wilson Homes North West previously said: "We recently held a public consultation to determine the views of the local community on what they would like to see in any residential development on land south of Cherryfield Drive, which forms part of the wider redevelopment of Kirkby Town Centre.
"A range of feedback was received via the ‘in person’ town centre consultation events, and on the consultation website. Our team is now taking the feedback into consideration and this will be used to help shape the plans prior to the submission of a planning application."
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