Local protesters are ramping up their opposition to a major development in Penwortham.

The Keep Bee Lane Rural campaign group is applying to protect Pickering’s Farm as green belt land – just as plans have been submitted for 1,100 new homes on the site.

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The group says the area needs protecting as it is “rich in wildlife and acts as the ‘green lungs’ for Penwortham and Lostock Hall”.

Taylor Wimpey and government housing agency Homes England’s application for The Lanes would see the development of the homes plus facilities, public open spaces and infrastructure including a primary school.

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Jordan Gresham, Strategic Land Regional Director for Taylor Wimpey, said: “Following an extensive consultation process, we are proud to have worked with Homes England to finalise and submit our joint masterplan and outline planning application for The Lanes to South Ribble Council and look forward to receiving comment on this.

“This site in Penwortham has been earmarked for a major development for almost two decades and will play a key role in the exciting plans for the Central Lancashire City Deal. 

“The Lanes will go some way to delivering some of the 7,000 new homes required by the Council across South Ribble from now up until the end of 2026. We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to deliver a statement development that boasts all the convenience and style of new-build properties with the sense of community, open-space, and the addition of stunning scenery that is synonymous with South Ribble.”

The Keep Bee Lane Rural group is urging local residents to add their voices to the protest.

Bamber Bridge Labour is also in opposition to the planning application. A Facebook post from the group said: “We stand shoulder to shoulder with all residents who are opposed to woefully inappropriate development”.

The application can be viewed on the South Ribble planning system by searching for reference 07/2020/00015/ORM.

For more information on the campaign to protect the area, visit the Keep Bee Lane Rural Facebook group.

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What do you think of the plans? Let us know in the comments.