North West authorities approve plans for 458 new homes

Plans for almost 460 homes have been approved at two North West sites.Halton Borough Council’s development management committee has approved plans for 328 new homes in Widnes.Miller Homes is behind the scheme, named Lunts Heath Rise, which will feature a selection of one-, two-, three-, four-, and five-bedroom homes, offering a diverse range of housing options to meet the needs of families, individuals, and first-time buyers.Out of the 328 dwellings, 66 will be allocated as affordable homes, reflecting Miller Homes’ commitment to creating inclusive and accessible communities.The development project has been designed to complement the existing surroundings and bring a new community to the Widnes area.David Brackley, regional operations director at Miller Homes, said: “This development will not only provide much needed housing options but also contribute to the ongoing growth and vitality of the Widnes community.“Lunts Heath Rise is designed to meet the diverse needs of future residents, and we are excited to see the project progress.”Lunts Heath Rise will offer residents access to open land, play spaces, and two new access points from Lunt’s Heath Road. As construction moves forward, Miller Homes aims to have the first homes on sale by late this year, with anticipated move-in dates in early 2024.Meanwhile, Wyre Council’s planning committee has approved a scheme to deliver 130 new homes on Fleetwood Road North in Thornton Cleveleys.It was third time lucky following today’s committee after the submission was twice rejected, despite recommendations to approve by the council’s planning officers.The development is a joint venture between brownfield land specialist BXB Thornton and Promenade Estates, both based in Liverpool.The joint venture has agreed the sale of the site to national registered housing provider, Places for People, which will deliver the homes for affordable rent and shared ownership.BXB Thornton director, Gary Goodman, said: “This is excellent news for the economic future of the local community as it will see the delivery of a new link road into Hillhouse Enterprise Zone which will unlock new jobs and opportunities during a time of economic uncertainty.“The housing element fulfils a similar social purpose, providing affordable homes at a time of rising costs. Places for People are an exceptional developer and will be delivering quality homes in a lovely setting that will provide security for families that require decent places to live.”The 12-acre site was acquired in February 2021 and the previously enjoyed consent for a supermarket, permission for which has now lapsed.