Plans for 277 new homes in Lancaster

Housebuilder Story Homes has submitted two separate planning applications, which would bring 277 new homes to Lancaster.

The larger of the two proposed schemes, which would deliver 232 properties, is located on land off Grab Lane which has been allocated for housing in the Lancaster City Council Local Plan.

The smaller scheme, which will deliver 45 new homes if approved, is located on land at Ashton Road, which Story says is within the Lancaster South Broad Location for Growth, as identified in the Local Plan.

The developer says the schemes will include affordable homes as well as new landscaped open space, an equipped play area and improvements to the highway network. It hopes for a decision on both schemes in the summer.

Story says ‘Travel Plans’ will also be in place for both developments, highlighting sustainable travel options available. There will also be electric vehicle charging points and cycle storage provision for all homes.

Both developments include a mix of two to six-bedroom properties with energy efficient features which include low energy lighting, highly efficient hot water heating systems and photovoltaic panels.

Paul Fenton, a land manager at Story Homes, said: “Following a thorough period of engagement with local and statutory stakeholders, we are pleased to have submitted a full planning application to Lancaster City Council for the delivery of 232 new homes on the land off Grab Lane.

“The scheme has been carefully designed to respect the local landscape character and heritage setting, with particular attention paid to the prominence of the nearby Ashton Memorial and Williamson Park.

“It will deliver a range of family homes that will help to meet local housing need, with a number of affordable homes. The homes will be complemented by an attractive landscaped area which will offer ecological and biodiversity benefits through natural surface water management features.”

David Hayward, land manager at Story Homes, said about the Ashton Road plan: “The proposed development will deliver a number of benefits to the local community, including affordable housing for people with a connection to the area, and improvement to the local highway that will assist with pedestrian connections to local services and amenities.”