The land off Eastway could become a new supermarket and other stores

A new retail park in Fulwood has been delayed as plans for new roads are worked out.

Land off Eastway has plans lodged to create a new 4,000 square metre supermarket, petrol station, pub, restaurant and also new shops.

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An outline planning application from Hollins Strategic Land LLP was due to be heard at the recent Preston City Council planning committee.

But it was delayed as the developers said they needed more time to work with Lancashire County Council’s highways department after concerns were raised.

A detailed report from England and Lyle town planning consultants outlines how a supermarket war could be triggered if the development goes ahead.

It states nearly £900,000 would be drawn away from Sharoe Green’s shopping area, including Booths, by the new superstore.

A Tesco store at Cottam as part of the Brickworks development has already been approved but the report states any new store would find itself competing against it.

The report states: “It is considered the applicant has failed to demonstrate that the proposed development will play a complimentary role to the Cottam District Centre.”

The Highways department at the county council said they could not support the application, stating:

– The application, as submitted, currently fails to demonstrate that the site can, fully and appropriately integrate with the LCC Central Lancashire Highways and Transport Master Plan including timing/delivery, nor does it indicate any potential funding streams to support the delivery of the North West Preston Masterplan with regard to the developments impact.

– Failure to demonstrate a safe and adequate means of site access, further the site access operation and development traffic, has negative impacts on the local
highway network.

– Lack of information, support and commitment with regard to satisfying the sustainability needs of the site. The development must provide/ support sustainable transport measures to address the issues relating to the provision for public transport, cycling and walking connections to appropriately integrate with both the existing surrounding environment and all future development phases, and
satisfy the NPPF foundation of providing for sustainable transport.

– Failure to demonstrate that adequate parking can be provided for the development and lack of adequate parking can cause congestion at the site access and impact the local highway network.

The application has also drawn an objection from the Preston Ramblers’ Association who say it will restrict public rights of way across what are currently fields.

Branded the Eastway Hub by developers they say they want to “create a sustainable, attractive and high quality mixed-use scheme for Fulwood that provides local facilities to serve the local population, is integrated into the wider community and contributes to creating a sense of place and identity.”

You can see the full plans on the city council website which will now be heard at a future meeting of the planning committee.

Do you live in the area? What do you think? Does the area need a new supermarket?