PROPOSALS to build up to 58 homes on an industrial estate in Rainford will be considered tonight.

St Helens Council’s planning committee will be asked to decide on an outline application for a residential development, all matters reserved excluding access, on a site in Lords Fold, Rainford.

The application, submitted by Peter Mahood, seeks approval for the demolition of all of the buildings and the erection of up to 58 homes, as well works to the existing access at the junction of Lords Folds and Ormskirk Road.

Despite not being included in the St Helens Local Plan Core Strategy, a council report said the delivery of the proposals would “positively contribute” to housing land supply in the borough.

“Land available for additional residential development in this part of the borough is at a premium and rarely comes forward,” the report said.

“This is due to the village being long established and tightly surrounded by green belt.”

The two-hectare site is bordered by small starter workshops and a large coal yard to the west, residential properties to the east and open aspect green belt to the north and south.

Currently there are two occupied units on the site, Mahood Marquees and Bobby’s Foods. The remaining units are all vacant.

Mahood Marquees and the coal yard will relocate to a new site.

“This industrial site is significantly underused,” the report said. “It competes poorly with alternative available industrial estates.

“The buildings are at end of life, they are unsuitable for modern business practices, do not meet renters expectations (poor condition) and the close proximity to neighbouring residential uses means that the site has an extensive enforcement/complaints history.

“On the basis of the above, to demolish and rebuild industrial units is not considered to be a practical efficient use of land, particularly in this location, with Rainford having a significant shortfall of housing availability.

“The land is well served by existing local infrastructure, local public services and shopping facilities, and is located on a recognised public transport route.

“Residential development on this site is considered to be positive sustainable development.”

The report said the council has received eight individual letters of objection to the development.

Angela Forsyth, the case officer in charge of the application, has recommended that the committee grant planning permission, subject to a number of conditions.