Livesey Parish Council objects to new homes on rural road

Christopher Miller has applied for permission in principle for the detached four-bedroom houses on land at Tockholes Road as it comes out of Livesey Parish.

If granted, the approval would pave the way for a full, detailed planning application to Blackburn with Darwen Council.

But Les Cade, the chair of Livesey Parish Council, has revealed it has lodged an official objection to the proposal with the planning authority.

Mr Miller’s application proposes the removal of the existing outbuildings on site, and the erection of four new detached, double-storey dwellings with four bedrooms, driveways, parking, and rear gardens.

A supporting statement says: “The proposed dwellings will demonstrate outstanding architectural merit, enhance their immediate setting, and respond sensitively to local character.

“The homes are envisioned as context-sensitive, modest in scale, energy efficient, and constructed using sustainable methods and materials.

“Removing redundant outbuildings and introducing four modest, well-sited, attractive dwellings will enhance visual coherence and reduce landscape clutter.

“The proposed site (in an accessible location) would provide an appropriate site for a modest housing development.”

Mr Cade said: “Livesey Parish Council are objecting to the build based on the local development plan.

“The build is on the outskirts of Tockholes and it is suggested it comes under the local plan’s rural exception sites assessment.

“The land in question falls under Livesey Parish Council being part of Livesey and not Tockholes.

“Less than half a mile of this proposed development sits Sycamore Farm, Bernetts Nook and extension to the Fernhurst estate all providing good quality family homes.

“Three-quarters of a mile away is the new Horden view estate comprising of 75 affordable properties.

“What is the requirement to build four four-bedroom detached properties within this vicinity?

“Should there be a need, if it's accepted being on the edge of a village, the requirement must be towards affordable housing for agricultural workers. These proposed properties do not appear to fit that particular requirement.

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“The parish council question the benefit to the economy or the place in view of other properties being available within a short distance. Who will these properties be marketed to and what will differentiate them from neighbouring properties?

“There are sufficient new builds in Livesey to meet demand. 

“The planning statement promotes a view that it will contribute to a diverse housing mix which will serve local need within the area. Do we not already have this?

“Road safety is a concern.”