Plans to create an industrial park on open countryside in Whittingham are set to be given the green light by Preston City Council.

The application seeks to demolish the current buildings on the Sandbank Estate in Cumeragh Lane and build 11 modern units on adjoining land.

In addition, an existing dwelling, Sandbank House, accessed from Ashley Lane, would make way for a new residential building.

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In February 2021, a similar industrial unit scheme was rejected by the Council, however those plans also included an outline planning application for development of up to 10 homes.

One comment on the new proposal claimed that, should these plans go ahead, a further application would be made for additional housing once the existing estate was demolished.

Whittingham Parish Council has lodged an objection, saying nothing justifies the proposed industrial development in the open countryside.

The Parish Council suggests the existing units should be demolished and replaced, allowing for a phased redevelopment of the site.

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Despite this, a report to Planning Committee says the benefits of the application – including economic growth and improving the appearance of the area – tip the balance in favour of it being approved.

The decision will be made on Tuesday (1 March).

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