Langtree and St Helens Borough Council have jointly submitted a planning application for the second phase of the Parkside Colliery regeneration project.
This phase aims to bring high-quality manufacturing jobs to the area and includes plans for extensive site infrastructure improvements.
Outline Consent for New Buildings
Parkside Regeneration, a joint venture between St Helens Borough Council and developer Langtree, has submitted a hybrid planning application for the Parkside Colliery. This application seeks outline consent for up to three buildings, providing up to 155,000 square meters of space. By not defining the buildings’ specifications now, they can be adapted to meet the requirements of diverse end-users.
The application focuses on attracting not only logistics firms but also manufacturing businesses, enhancing job creation potential. This dimension adds flexibility to the project, making it appealing to a wider range of industries.
Detailed Planning Permission and Infrastructure
The application also covers detailed planning permission for various aspects of site infrastructure, including roads, drainage, and landscape design. Proposed plans include public paths and exercise areas that will link with phase one trails, totalling over 4.5 km of landscaped paths.
The site, closed since 1957, is set to become more accessible and provide significant exercise and recreation opportunities for the local community.
Public Consultation and Community Concerns
An 11-day consultation was held in July to gather public opinion on the application. The community was invited to share their views on issues like noise, light, and landscape mitigation.
John Downes, Chairman of Parkside Regeneration, explained that technical teams have worked hard to address these concerns, ensuring the project meets and exceeds regulatory obligations.
The public can review detailed proposals and supporting reports on the St Helens Council’s planning portal once they are published.
“Our consultation identified natural concerns around issues such as noise, light and landscape mitigation, and our technical teams have put a huge amount of work into these issues to ensure that the scheme as proposed meets and exceeds wherever possible our regulatory obligations,” said Downes.
Economic and Job Creation Potential
Councillor Kate Groucutt highlighted the job creation potential of the project. “This next phase of the regeneration at Parkside will bring a wealth of opportunities to create high-quality jobs for our residents through our focus on attracting manufacturing companies to the site,” she stated.
The project is expected to add more than £100m a year to the borough’s economic output if the application is approved. Additionally, it is anticipated to generate £3.7m in new rateable income for public services.
The project also aims to maximise local spend across all stages, benefiting existing businesses in St Helens Borough.
Manufacturing Focus and Flexibility
John Downes emphasised the project’s manufacturing focus, stressing its importance for job diversity and value. “It has always been our ambition to attract manufacturers to the site to bolster the mix and value of jobs we create,” he explained.
The flexibility in design means the buildings can be adapted to meet the precise needs of various occupiers, a key selling point for attracting businesses.
“Whatever you want, Parkside can deliver,” added Downes, highlighting the project’s ability to meet diverse industrial demands.
Phase One and S.73 Application
Phase one of the Parkside project received its final consent in March 2024, following a ‘reserved matters’ planning application approval. This phase paved the way for subsequent developments at the site.
Additionally, the new application includes a S.73 application for minor material amendments to phase one, reflecting the recently constructed Parkside Link Road.
The link road will be fully operational before construction begins, ensuring seamless access to the site.
Supporting Local Businesses and Supply Chains
A project was launched to identify local supply chain partners for the construction phases. Nearly 200 firms registered to support the scheme.
These local businesses are now being assisted with pre-qualification requirements, enabling them to bid for contracts and contribute to the project’s development.
Expert Consultations and Planning
Spawforths are the planning consultants for the scheme, ensuring all regulatory and planning requirements are met.
Curtins are advising on highways and transport matters, while Fletcher Rae is responsible for the architectural design.
TPM Landscape and Cundall are handling landscape and civil engineering tasks, respectively, ensuring the project’s comprehensive planning and execution.
The Parkside Colliery regeneration project promises significant economic and employment benefits for St Helens Borough.
With a focus on manufacturing and flexibility, the project is well-positioned to meet diverse industrial needs and enhance local job creation.