Proposals submitted for £15m business park

Plans to kickstart the redevelopment of a business park in a Lancashire town have been lodged.Heysham Business Park lies within the Heysham Gateway regeneration area which is identified by Lancaster City Council for major economic investment through its adopted Local Plan.The 44-acre employment park is on part of the Heysham Aviation Fuel Works site which fuelled the air force during the second world war.During the last 20 years it became largely dilapidated and underutilised and a focus for extensive fly tipping and anti-social behaviour.However, in 2021 the business park was purchased by AMA FIC Ltd, part of Crown Oil Ltd, which has invested considerably to clear all the illegally tipped waste. It is now seeking to bring forward employment space at the site.The first phase of works included waste removal, refurbishment of several existing units, creation of secure compounds, security improvements and lighting on site.The next tranche of works will bring forward four employment units and a gatehouse.P4 Planning is advising AMA FIC Ltd on the planning strategy to bring forward a coordinated approach to the wider site’s redevelopment. The plot is strategically located close to Heysham’s port and power station.The submitted planning application to Lancaster City Council represents the next step in the strategy to secure consent to carry out major redevelopment, improve security and enhance the appearance of the site.Bill Davidson, managing director at P4 Planning said: “AMA FIC has acquired this dilapidated employment site and through their energy and investment, is giving it a new lease of life, which is a pragmatic way to deliver economic growth and presents significant environmental benefits.”Cllr Andrew Gardiner, of the Overton Ward, said: “The work already undertaken at Heysham Business Park to clean up the site demonstrates the new landowners’ commitment, and this latest application for new employment space represents a fantastic opportunity to bring investment to the area. We hope it will become a catalyst for further regeneration in the area.”P4 Planning is working with architects Bate and Taylor, SCP Transport, Cudd Bentley, E3P, and Gravitate Consulting.