Plans for 164 new homes on currently "overgrown" land have been approved.
The plans, submitted to St Helens Borough Council by Vistry Partnerships, involve an area of land just north of Elephant Lane, in Thatto Heath. They include 56 two-bedroom; 91 three-bedroom and 17 four-bedroom houses.
Part of the application states that the developer intends to create 83 affordable homes, despite there being "no requirement" to do so.
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A planning statement submitted with the plans debates a prior suggestion that the land should be classed as greenfield space. It claims: “pre-application enquiry response suggests that the site should be considered as a greenfield site” but “Vistry do not agree with this suggestion due to the extensive previous uses of the site.
"Whether the application as a whole or in part is considered to be brownfield the principle of residential development across the entire parcel complied with the provisions of the adopted development plan.
“The site is currently vacant and overgrown with vegetation. Historically the site has been occupied by a canal which has now been filled and several former coal shafts, a pumping house and associated buildings. Other uses on the site include a day centre and Network Rail compound”.
The plans had initially sparked some concern for those living in the area, who feel there is not adequate infrastructure i.e. schools and GPs for so many new homes. One concerned resident said: "The authorities really need to consider the impact these new homes will have on schools and the NHS in the area."
While another added: "It's good news but there will definitely be more doctors, dentists etc. needed."
The plans were recommended for approval during a council meeting on November 1, subject to a legal agreement.
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