Partington's seeks permission to build £75m leisure destination

Thornton-Cleveleys-based holiday park operator Partington's has submitted a planning application to Fylde Borough Council for a new development offering ‘aspirational escapism’.

The Windy Harbour project represents a £75m investment for the company and would create hundreds of jobs.

The luxury destination will sit within the expansive 166 acre natural site, which currently surrounds the company’s 64 acre Windy Harbour Holiday Park on the banks of the River Wyre.

The new development will feature holiday lodges, a luxury spa and lifestyle complex and full leisure facilities.

Planning permission is already in place to build holiday and leisure facilities on the site, which was recently purchased by Partington’s chief executive officers, Rob Kearsley and Andrea Challis.

The recently amended planning application for Windy Harbour proposes a phased development over a number of years which will begin with a lodge park of 495 tailor-made holiday homes and extensive leisure facilities, which will be housed within bespoke barns spanning a 3,408 sq m area, including swimming pools, gymnasium plus bar, restaurant and entertainment facilities.

Further proposals include a 2,544 sq m luxury spa and wellbeing centre offering holistic concepts that intertwine health and nature. The application also includes scenic cycle and running tracks, nature walks and plans for a 102-bedroom hotel.

Rob Kearsley said: “This bold investment in a thrilling new leisure destination for the North West builds on our years of expertise in running successful holiday parks for all. It also comes as Partington’s celebrates its 80th anniversary and showcases our dedication to keep moving the business forward.”

Fellow CEO, Andrea Challis, added: “The incredible excitement we feel about this project is equally matched by our deep commitment to our customers as well as the Partington’s team. Every aspect of this inspiring new development is thoughtfully crafted to consider the needs of our visitors and their lifestyle and leisure aspirations whilst also providing our team with an outstanding destination they will be proud to be part of.”