PLANS have been drawn up seeking permission to build more than 100 homes on green belt land.
An outline planning application for up to 109 residential units on land off Elton Head Road has been sent in to St Helens Council.
The proposals have been drawn up by planners and architects Cassidy + Ashton, on behalf of applicants The Jones Partnership.
Picture: Cassidy + Ashton (St Helens Council Planning Portal)
The Local Plan and development on green belt land has been a hot political topic over recent years in St Helens.
A planning statement in the application claims the release of green belt land is justified in this case.
It reads: "It is acknowledged that the application site is currently designated as Green Belt, however, the view taken is that St Helens Council are at an advanced enough stage of the Local Plan adoption process, of which there has been a comprehensive review of the Green Belt and the proposed release of land for residential development to meet future housing demand in both the short term and long term, so supporting the consideration of the site at this stage.
"It is our understanding that the land that is the subject of this outline planning application is supported for release from the Green Belt, albeit as safeguarded land for future residential development.
"Our approach is that circumstances justify consideration of the site now".
Picture: Cassidy + Ashton (St Helens Council Planning Portal)
It adds: "It is submitted that the land off Elton Head Road is capable of being developed in its own right and is deliverable with immediate effect, hence giving the council greater certainty in their strategic housing policy aspirations and ensuring soundness of the Local Plan".
The plans also say: "The indicative scheme before you clearly demonstrates that 109 units can be accommodated on the site and that the proposed vehicular access to the site from Elton Head Road is of a suitable quality to ensure no impact on highway safety".
A determination deadline on the plans has been set for March 17, 2022.
View the plans here.
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