Haydock Point set to advance

The major Haydock Point scheme being proposed by Peel L&P looks set to advance next week.The company, working with logistics developer PLP, submitted a planning application for the manufacturing and logistics development in 2017.It would be expected to provide about 2,500 jobs and be worth approximately £159m each year to the North West economy.In May, the secretary of state for housing, communities and local government ‘called-in’ other logistics and distribution employment schemes in Wigan, Bolton and St Helens for a public inquiry, which is being led by a planning inspector.In July, Peel L&P decided to appeal the existing Haydock Point application to the Secretary of State on the grounds of non-determination, to ensure that the proposals are considered at the same time as the other schemes.This will ensure the St Helens-based employment proposals are included in the process to help to secure local investment and jobs.Next week, members of the St Helens Council’s planning committee will be asked to decide the authority’s position on the appealed Haydock application, ahead of this being considered at appeal by an inspector and the Secretary of State.The recommendation is to back the plans.