THE £80 million redevelopment of Cottam Hall Brickworks moved a step closer after the developer, Cottam Hall Properties Ltd and Tesco, submitted a joint planning application.

Cottam Hall Brickworks is one of Preston’s major regeneration projects that is set to transform a derelict 28 acre site. It is thought to be one of Lancashire’s most sustainable regeneration projects.

The scheme is anticipated to generate over 700 jobs and is one of a new generation of schemes in the UK that answers transport, leisure, business, residential and social issues in one major redevelopment.

Bus services will connect the development to other parts of the City, while cycle and walkways will lead to Preston Sports Arena, country paths and the City Centre.

Cottam Hall Brickworks will also include a nature reserve stretching over 6 acres, where local schools and University will have access to for educational purposes. The reserve will also be managed by a specialist ecologist who would involve the local community.

Ian Rankin, chairman of Cottam Hall Properties, the developer behind the project added:

"We have taken a long time in making sure this development is thoroughly thought out and has the support of all the stakeholders including Lancashire County Council and English Partnerships. All partners are all very much concerned about the future sustainability of the site and the impact it has on surrounding neighbourhoods.

"It will provide a focus for surrounding communities whilst opening up access to the canal and open countryside beyond. One of the key benefits of the development is that it will minimise the need for cars.

"If we are granted planning permission, we could be on-site within four months working on a project that will bring a lot of benefits to the community and demonstrating that Preston has the ambition to have a truly sustainable development that could be repeated across the UK."

A Tesco spokesperson commented:

"Tesco is delighted to be part of this major regeneration initiative proposal and has been working with Cottam Hall Properties, City Council and stakeholders to help deliver a comprehensive and sustainable mixed use development opportunity."

"This scheme has been a long time in coming and we are now at a critical stage . All being well we will see a large area of unused land transformed into valuable , much needed facilities." said Peter Kuit, Preston Council’s Director of Development.

Councillor Norman Abram, Lancashire County Councillor for Preston West, commented on the development. He added.

"I would certainly like to add a quote and I would like to say how delighted I am that the planning application has eventually been submitted. It has taken a considerable time to reach this stage but, as the County Councillor for the area, I am convinced that the benefits, both commercially and ecologically, will be enormous.

"I have every confidence in the success of the development and congratulate all concerned in its conception."