AN AMENDED bid to redevelop a former industrial site, allowing for up to 750 more new houses, will strengthen Prescot's regeneration plans, according to council planners.

Councillors in Knowsley have approved amended plans to redevelop the former Prysmian Cables and Systems site in Prescot, which has been disused for a number of years.

At a planning committee meeting, councillors granted permission for a revision to a previously approved proposal for the site, meaning even more homes will now be built – as well as plans for commercial and industrial buildings.

Councillor Andy Moorhead, leader of Knowsley Council, said: "This development will provide high quality housing for the town of Prescot.

"The revision to the original application allows for up to 750 new houses and up to 929 square metres of commercial and industrial buildings that will give the local economy a real boost."

He added: "The site has been derelict for many years so it is pleasing to know that it will be effectively brought back into use. This is another example of investment in the town which will strengthen the council's regeneration plans for Prescot and enhance other investments in the town, including the £3.8 million Townscape Heritage Initiative."

Discussions with individual housing developers are expected to continue and building work on the first new homes is expected to start later this year.

Conditions specified as part of the planning approval include the land owner entering into a legal agreement to secure off-site highway improvements, a bus route and public open space.