Significant step forward for colliery redevelopment

The transformation of a former colliery in Newton-le-Willows has taken a step forward, with the submission of a reserved matters planning application for the first phase of development.Parkside Regeneration, the joint venture between St Helens Borough Council and developer Langtree, is behind plans to redevelop the derelict Parkside colliery with one million square feet of logistics space.Outline plans for the scheme were granted in November 2021.If reserved matters plans are approved, work will commence on securing a contractor to bring forward phase one of the project, which includes two speculatively built units of 367,700 sq ft and 198,100 sq ft.Details of a third unit are also being submitted as part of the reserved matters application comprising a further 227,400 sq ft.Overall, the first phase development at Parkside is expected to generate more than 1,300 new jobs.Langtree group chief executive John Downes, who is also chair of the Parkside Regeneration Board, said: “The scale of the project and our desire to deliver a best-in-class development across the board means this has necessarily been a lengthy process.”It’s been worth the hard work because what we are proposing far exceeds anything I’ve seen in the logistics arena. Every detail, from energy efficiency and supply, to landscaping, site layout and lighting has been carefully thought-through so that potential occupiers can be satisfied that they are bringing their brand to a suitable home.”He added: “Major occupiers are increasingly putting head-office functions in key distribution hubs, and we recognise the importance of the office areas as places for people, and the relevance of building design to facilitate health, wellbeing, and productivity.”We have therefore reflected this by upgrading our office specifications within each building, as well as the façade treatments that go with them. It will mean a wider range of jobs available for local people, with higher salaries and different career paths, too.”David Baines, leader of St Helens Borough Council, added: “I am confident that residents will be pleased with the project details that we are bringing forward. Parkside will be a high-quality development that will enhance the area, provide a positive setting for businesses to locate to and ensure environmental net gain.”And being part of the Liverpool City Region Freeport will bring additional benefits for businesses right across the borough and beyond, creating prosperity and tangible benefits for our residents in the form of good quality jobs and the increased opportunities that a growing economy brings. The Council and Langtree are committed to providing a development that has the highest possible environmental credentials. Should the application be approved, we can look forward to progressing into the delivery phase and engaging as much of our local supply chain as possible to help with the construction and fit-out of the units.”