Letters - Planning and Development in Tarleton and Hesketh Bank

LETTERS - PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Dear Sir,
I refer to Andy Parkinson's letter dated 14th March. If he would care to visit the Planning Applications page on the West Lancashire District Council's web site he will see that after many years Tarleton's "Grot Spot" is about to disappear. The application to construct 3 small offices on the site was approved at last Thursday's planning meeting.
If he wishes to see the detailed plans he can do so by visiting the Planning Dept at WLDC's offices in Ormskirk during normal working hours.
Yours faithfully,
Dave Rydings - Tarleton Parish Councillor, 15th March 2008

Gateway to Tarleton
I see that the site at Tarleton lights has started to be cleared. Does anyone know what is happening to it??
Andy Parkinson, 14th March 2008

Dear Editor,

I feel I must respond to the issues raised by the save the field campaign. The field in question is part the Flavourfresh Salads glasshouse nursery on Marsh Rd. The company is owned by three local growers and has been a glasshouse nursery site growing tomatoes since the late 1960s. We are a local firm producing tomatoes that are not only sold to the major supermarkets but also through local farm shops and the Southport Farmers market.

In these days of concern about ' food miles' we feel it is vital to maintain primary production of food in an area that has been a traditional market garden area for at least the last 100 years. We are also a major employer within this area, with a full-time staff of over 140 people most of whom live in the Banks, Hesketh Bank and Southport area.

The facts of the proposed new glasshouse are these:-

1. The glasshouse size is 3.5 acres not 5 acres.

2. The field on whiich the glasshouse is to be built was up to 2003 used to grow salad crops (lettuce and celery).For the last 4 years it has been rented out to one of our employees to grow hay and to graze horses.This is prime agricultural land which has been and will be nurtured and cultivated to produce food crops as it has done for the last 100 years.

3. The new greenhouse will be heated using the existing boilers on site without needing any extra capacity. This is because we have over the last three years invested heavily in themal screens which has enabled us to reduce our energy input by 15-20%.

4. The crops grown in this glasshouse will be grown in the soil organically, and grown to the strict organic specifications laid down by the British Soil Association.

5. The new glasshouse will create between 10-12 extra full-time jobs.

6. The CO2 that will be used in this glasshouse will be provided by diverting the flue gases from the existing boilers into the glasshouse. The plants will then use the co2 to aid growth instead of it being released into the atmosphere.

7. There is no intention to light this glasshouse for overwintered crops.

8. The product produced by this glasshouse will be transported to our customers on existing transport, so will not lead to any increase in HGV traffic.

To conclude, we are a locol company producing top quality, local produce in a area that has a long history of renowned agricultural and horticultural expertise, and in which we are trying to sustain this tradition and employment for the future,

Yours Sincerely

Mick Fradsham, M.D. Flavourfresh Salads Ltd
29th August 2007

SAVE THE FIELD CAMPAIGN
Dear Editor,
We are a group trying to prevent a field [Marsh Road, Banks] (currently an excellent barn and little owl habitat of 5 acres) from being covered in 20ft high greenhouses to produce organic tomatoes for Marks and Spencer.

Barn owls are often seen hunting on the field and a regular little owl nest site is nearby. The Three Owls bird Sanctuary has used it as a release site for rehabilitated owls for 8 years. Please see our website www.savethefield.co.uk for details.

The owners of the field, Flavourfresh, are applying for planning permission that shows the entire field will be covered right up to Marsh road. By a horrible irony the quality of the site as a habitat also means the soil association will grant it 'organic status' which is why Marks and Spencer want to grow tomatoes there - covering it in industrial greenhouses then heating it, lighting it and then finally pumping co2 in.This will utterly destroy any value it has overnight AND managing to spoil the look of part of Banks for ever.

We already have over 200 signitures on our petition - many are concerned about the visual impact of the scheme and any increase in HGV traffic.

We need the public to help urgently. WE NEED LETTERS OF OBJECTION SUBMITTING TO WEST LANCS PLANNING.

If you wish to object please, please write to: Mr K Usher Area Planning Officer PO Box 16. 52 Derby St. Ormskirk. Lancs. L39 2DF and detail your objections. You may like to refer to some of the issues raised above, but please be sure to include the reference number (Planning application reference number 2007/0885/ful) and state clearly that you wish the council to reject the application.

For more information contact Jennifer Unwin at nogreenhouses@btinternet.com

Jennifer Unwin, 23rd August 2007

Further to the previous comment about the new supermarket being accessed by a mini roundabout close to a relatively blind crest over the old railway bridge - whilst personally I am against mini roundabouts I grudgingly note that similar ones in Burscough allowing access to Tesco's seem to work quite well. There is, however a pedestrian crossing shown on the Booth's diagrams situated between the Booth's entrance mini roundabout and the crest of the rise. I do hope that this will be protected by traffic lights as I have noted more than a few near misses as people access the cash machine at HSBC.
Regards
Bob Robinson, 14th June 2007

New Booths Supermarket
I see by the plans for the new supermarket (on show in Longton store) that Booths are planning a mini roundabout onto Station Road.
This will be close to the old railway bridge so it should be interesting when approaching from Hesketh Bank.
Is there not enough traffic here anyway?
Mick Bodill, 13th June 2007

It is good that the application for the Autistic Centre has been approved and children will now have the help that is so needed to assist them in fulfilling their potential.

Is there a timetable to start the work and when can we expect the Care Home to open?
At this stage are you seeking any Local Support?
J Johnston, 25th Febraury 2007

Thank you to all that have supported the planning application for 1A Guide Road. At last good reason has prevailed and the planning application has been passed.

This is a much needed facility for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders and their families and a positive step forward for autism provision. We now hope all of the local community will welcome the children and their support workers and actively engage in providing support for this venture.

P.A.S.T.
Parents of Autistic Spectrum (disorders) Together
Christine Walker & Jill Taylor 16th February 2007

Reading all these letters of concern about a respite for children with challenging behaviour and social needs is quite disturbing. Are we as human beings willing to deprive children of much needed help and yes they are first and foremost children regardless of Autism. Why are we so negative towards children with autism? Is this respite a threat to civilisation in hesketh bank? In a world where atrocities happen everyday towards children is it not our duty to help those who need our help? Such anger in the letters i have read is unbelievable as well as threats aimed at the organisers. We all like to think we are tolerant but in this instance selective tolerance is the in thing.
A few years ago i had no knowledge of autism and what it meant, i still don't know everything yet my mind is open to learn. Through my partner i have had the privilege of meeting children with autism. I can assure you they are not monsters they are just children who are blessed with individual gifts. We all are proud of our children, we witness their growth throughout the years, we revel in their accomplishments, they are our pride and joy. As responsible parents would you not want the best for your child? This respite can benefit many children on the autistic spectrum. I ask that you please open your minds and see them as children with potential instead of contempt found in these letters.
Tarak Ali, London, 12th February 2007

Proposed Centre on Guide Road, Hesketh Bank

To who it may concern.

I have followed the progress of the proposed centre in Hesketh Bank and so far kept my opinions to myself, but having read some of the correspondence opposing the centre I felt I must write to you.

As a mother of a 6 year boy who happens to be on the Autistic Spectrum I am delighted that a centre like the one proposed in Hesketh Bank is hopefully going ahead! There is a distinct lack of facilities in the Preston for children like my son. Given the right support and care every child flourishes not just children like my son, but don't parents and cares deserve a break too? Okay I do not live in Hesketh Bank so maybe I do not really have a right to comment, but I also live in a small village, which happens to have an Autistic school just up the road. My village has embraced my son and the local mainstream school he attends have open communication with this school to get help and information when required.

One of the letters I read which was upsetting was from a lady who said she fears her children could be 'attacked'. Obviously in her mind these children will be left to roam the streets!! She also stated that these children should be located in a secure place! This is exactly the sort of actions which happened years ago when children were locked away, from society and away from any 'normal' life. May I also state that the children from the local autistic school near where I live play any active role in the community going into the village, visiting the library and being helped with simple things like being able to use money and to communicate with the outside world.

These children deserve access to the right services and as we have so little in this area, we as parents will fight to get what we need for our children.

Regards

Tammy Henshaw, Grimsargh, Preston. 25th January 2007

1A GUIDE ROAD - PLANNING APPLICATION
CLUTCHING AT STRAWS

I am replying in response to the posting on this forum from the Guide Road Residents Association on November 27th.

My name is Christine Walker and I am the mother of a nine-year-old autistic boy.

My son, with support, attends an excellent mainstream primary school where he is valued and treated as an equal member of the school community. My dream, like any other parent, is that my child will grow up and be valued as an equal member of society, have a job, and have somewhere to live, without fear of prejudice. But what chance does he have?

It is clear to me that the residents association has made its mind up on this matter and is desperately looking for reasons to oppose the application.

They describe the location as "completely random", when in fact it is simply a residential property like normal families such as themselves would live in. Where do they think families with autistic children live - deep in the countryside in sound proof houses? Although some of our children may have sensitivity to noise, they have to learn to cope with it.

Their fears that it may turn into a home for young offenders is simply scare mongering. There is no suggestion whatsoever that this will happen. It is just another excuse to delay the planning process. If the residents association really believe that the government may force the proposed respite care home to take young offenders, then perhaps they should see that other facilities for people with disabilities or the elderly in Hesketh Bank are closed down, for fear that their tidy community may be infiltrated.

Please correct me if I am wrong, but originally the residents opposed the home due to the unsuitably of the location on a busy main road. Now the goalposts seem to have moved, and they do not want the home in case it is turned into accommodation for young offenders.

So are they saying that they do not want a residence for autistic children anywhere in Hesketh Bank just in case it may be used for young offenders?

Or is the truth that their ignorance and prejudices mean that they just don't autistic children in their village at all?

Christine Walker, 15th January 2007

Guide Rd

To Everyone Concerned

Having read the letter posted by the residents association, I was compelled to reply to them, hoping for a response - still waiting. I have offered people from the residents association the opportunity to come to a meeting of a local Autistic Spectrum Diosrder Support Group and discuss some of their problems with us, and see for themselves the lack of facilities, and at the same time, the sort of children that would be attending the respite centre.

With regard to the posted letter dated 27/11/06

I accessed the daily mail article "young offenders will be sent to childrens homes", as this seems to be the most predominant arguement left for stopping the respite centre at guide road from going ahead. Nowhere in this article does it mention that young offenders will be placed into respite centres or residential homes for autistic children, or for people with disabilities for that matter.

If this was the case, I should imagine that the National Autistic Society and the Disability Rights Commissions would intervene.

I also commented on the overall lack of respite centres and facilities for autistic children under the age of 16 in Lancashire. Hardly anyone in Lancashire offers this type of faciility, or support groups, social activites, etc. Believe me, I have looked. Over 16's have more opportunities, and support from social services, including housing in the communities - bought and paid for by social services.

I can appreciate the concern of the residents, however, disabled people have rights to, and families need all the support they can get.

If this project is allowed to continue, and supported, I am sure that it will benefit the local community rather than harm it. Job opportunities, training, etc. This should be viewed as a positive initiative for your community. Let it be something good and an inspiriation for other communities to act with compassion to those less fortunate than yourselves. Be a positive role model for disability, help break down the barriers and provide a future for those that currently are severely limited.

Jill Taylor - P.A.S.T Chairperson, 13th January 2007

I am so glad that I do not live anywhere near the Guide Road Residents as I doubt that I would be accepted in their neighbourhood as I am a foreigner.
What action do they propose to take if the sighting of the Autism Home is turned down and a family which includes 3 children with Autism moves in instead? Have you plans to ask Estate Agents to vet the viewers who view this property and only send White Middle Class Viewers round the property.

Get a life and accept everyone as they are.
J Johnston, 11th December 2006

Autism Home
I write this email on behalf of the Guide Road Residents Association and so any questions that need to be answered can be answered by any of us you may wish to contact.

Despite popular belief and ignorance by local newspapers the people of Hekseth Bank are not against children with Autism. Quite the opposite.

However we do have major concerns about the change of this property from residential to any abode that will house children.

As dicussed (but not reported) at the meeting held, all people who attended, recognised that the positioning of this home is not acceptable for any childrens home, school, nursery or care facility for young children. One resident said she would not be happy with her autistic niece attending this respite facility because of its location, and the dangerous traffic that passes and often causes chaos on such a sharp corner. She felt her niece would be frightened of the noise and traffic coming from the farms at all hours of the day.

Apart from the completely random location of the property, we also understand that the grounds of the property do not seem to be acceptable for the needs of children who like/need fresh air, and large swings and play sets to feel comfortable.

Another concern of ours, is once again not about autistic children, but the fact that the use of the property may change from an autistic home to a home for offenders, with the young offenders institutes being full and the government desperate to find them places.

Once again not reported by anyone but a major concern that our quiet village could be turned into a playground for young offenders. NOT ABOUT AUTISTIC CHILDREN.

Having read on Friday in the Daily Mail an article about young criminals being sent into childrens home, again we feel concerned about how this will affect us and our village and the youngsters that could reside in this property.

Could the government put pressure on the managers of the home to take young offenders with no where else to go?
Could the home change its licence from a home for autistic children to a home for young offenders?
Can autistic children be housed with young offenders? This seems insane to me!
Could Positive Childcare be forced to change their plans? Would they want to because there is more money there, after all it is a private company. How do we know our community will be safe in the future?

This is all information that im not sure anyone can answer, but as people often say you dont necessarily need to believe what you read in the papers.

We appreciate this must have been distressing to a number of people with autistic children, but our concerns look further at what could be rather than what is planned right now at this present time.

If you would like to read the report from the national newspaper please refer to
www.dailymail.co.uk an article written by James Slack and entitled Young Offenders will be sent to Childrens Homes.

If you wish to conact us please write to guideroadresidentsassociation@yahoo.co.uk

If you have any information on the above article or any knowledge of what this could mean for the home that could open please contact us at the above email address.

Many Thanks,
The Guide Road Residents Association, 27th November 2006

I was shocked and saddened by the LEP article in which the residents of Hesketh Bank so forcefully made their antiquated and ignorant views public at a meeting to discuss the proposed respite care home for children with Autism in their village.

As a mother of two amazing boys, both of whom are on the Autistic Spectrum, I was appalled that such negative and narrow-minded attitudes still abound, despite the growing numbers of children diagnosed with autism and the supposed awareness of the condition by more and more people. There are frequent news reports relating to Autism, so I find it unbelievable that the local residents appear to have absolutely no understanding or compassion whatsoever, when they have the chance to make a positive difference to the lives of these children and their stressed-out families.

A note to the lady who voiced her 'concerns' about where these children will be educated. A respite care home is just that - it is a haven offering short-term respite for children with Special Needs, to give their families a week end off from the ongoing challenges associated with bringing up a child with autism. The children will not be attending local schools, so she need not start looking at new schools for her normal child to move to, in the event of the application actually being granted.

Please give our children a chance and understand that autism is nothing to fear. The children will be no more disruptive or noisy than any house of 6 non-autistic children. This is the 21st Century and like it or not, Autism is on the increase for reasons we do not yet know.
Helen Hemmings, 22nd October 2006

How bigotted and ignorant can people be. I would be surprised if the tunnel vision people who are so against this home will even consider anyone else's view but hopefully common sense will prevail. I could not believe it on reading the story in the Lancashire Evening Post that there are such people living in such an area as Hesketh Bank.
I have an 11 year old son who has autism. He is the most caring, friendly person you could meet. How is he a danger. Yes there are some autistic children that are challenging, but just as an earlier person pointed out, there are many 'normal' children out there who are challenging.
My son attends a Special School and has thrived, I do wonder what would have become of him, but because there are caring people who think of others - are there any in Hesketh Bank? - he has a future, of which I might add, he deserves. He works twice as hard as his 'normal' brothers to achieve the same as them.
What are these objectors so worried about. If it was a premiership footballer moving in would the objections be still there.
I suggest that all these objectors take time out of their selfish lives and think of others. It's abit like going to a different country on holiday, you never know it might just be something good. And different can be good.
My son has enriched my live and all his extended families lives. Before he came along we had no experience of autism, apart from watching 'Rainman'. We had no choice in the matter and we got on with our lives, and what a life we have. Our lives are hard but I wouldn't swap my son for anything.
One last thing - What exactly is 'normal'?
Angela Tuffy, 22nd October 2006

As the parent of a nine-year-old boy with autism, Thursday's article in the Lancashire Evening Post immediately caught my eye. After reading the article, I checked the top of the page to confirm this was 2006 - the 21st century!

Since my son was diagnosed nearly seven years ago, I have read many newspaper articles, reports and books all with varying views, but never I have a read such a warped view of what autism is.

If this home was to be for children with Down's Syndrome, would there be such an outcry? I don't think so. I feel only pity for the residents that hold these views and would ask them to take the time to do a little research on autism.

I am priviliged to know many families who have a child or children on the autistic spectrum and would love these residents to meet these children, it would be a most rewarding experience.

Christine Walker, 22nd October 2006

Dear Sir,
Who lives next door to you? Do you really care? Would you offer to try to help if there was a child with a Hearing difficulty or a Sight problem or would you turn your back on the family and perhaps even consider moving home?
Why should Autism be treated so differently? Are we scared of people who may not measure up to our expectations and behave in perhaps a different manner to our children? Who are we to judge others and decide their futures?
The two mothers who wrote previously will no doubt have encountered several hurdles and possibly made great sacrifices so that their children receive the best options available to them. Their children are fortunate in having such loving and caring parents.
Our local Libraries have several books on Autism and Aspergers Syndrome. I would recommend reading on the subject of Autism and Aspergers Syndrome. It may help you to understand a little of how the children think and allay your fears. You have no need to be afraid. Please give everyone an equal chance.
J Johnston, 22nd October 2006

Dear Hesketh Bank Villagers

I would like to extend to you a thankful hand in bringing autism to the forefront of attention. Since there are approximately 1 in 80 now diagnosed as autistic spectrum disorders, it is in the locals interest to protect themselves from the potential villianous activity that must obviously be incorporated in these strange and dangerous individuals. We must surely lock them away in institutions and save the world from muggings and murders..........

What a backword world we are living in! This is 2006 for goodness sake..... Do you realise that some of the worlds most marvelled advances come from people with autism. Just because someone seems slightly different doesnt mean you can class them as a second class citizen. Just because someone has a different scope on life doesnt mean that it is wrong.

I hope sincerely that no-one within Tarleton or Hesketh Bank will ever have to live with autism as it would appear that you have no concept of it.

Challenging behaviour is there for a reason, lack of being understood, pain that is not being understood and dealt with, a lack of understanding the world. Instead of fearing the unknown how about learning about it.

Discrimination is rife about autism, but there are some people that actually embrace and understand it. If people could try and appreciate that changing behaviour patterns and entering a safe environment can radically alter the behaviours of these children and their life potential. Then this is a good thing.

Life potential is something that early intervention can help. A child that is mute and aggressive can become a child that is wonderfully behaved with a great grasp on language, that has a job, a family and contributes to society. Who are we to condem that child to a life in an institution.

Here we have some fantastic people offering a life-line to families that have fought for their child and had no support. We have some people saying, come and bring your child for some respite care and let yourself have a break, and these kind, caring people are being backlashed at and turned against.

The prejudiced mind only believes that autistic people are violent and dangerous. This is a very small minority of autistic children that have had no support or intervention to help them make sense of the world. Mostly autistic people enjoy rules and regulations, routine and order and survive in the outside world undetected and are classed as slightly odd and maybe as eccentric.Todays interventions are allowing this to become a reality, intead of a rarity. Newspapers sensationalise the small horror story about autism and never ever praise the majority.

If children are left traumatised by the bullying outside world, they may become aggressive, but you know what, I'd rather have an autistic child with me, than a "normal" hoody. I'd rather have a child that can be changed with behviour strategies, than a druggie. I'd rather have a safe and secure place for an autistic child, surrounded by caring staff and never left to wander around alone, than a drunk teenager robbing an elderly neighbour.

If you read the newspapers, you will see hundreds of incidents regarding hoodies, murders by youths, bullying, victimisation and violence - non of these are by autistic individuals, yet the one that is becomes the focus.

What you have here is the opportunity to provide a safe and wonderful environment for autistic children that is a life-line and an absolute neccesity.

If you took the time to ask families of autistic children what they think, they would tell you how you are changing their lives and how they thank you for your suport and understanding.

I say this as a mother of an autistic child and as chairperson of an autistic support group.

If you have questions that need answering then ask them, or better still come along to our group and meet these people before you pre-judge what you think may happen.

Jill Taylor, 21st October 2006

Shocked, disgusted, and utter disbelief at these ignorant narrow minded people, I actually could not believe I was seeing this article. I felt I was living in the dark ages

I'm the mother of a 6 year old autistic boy, who has thrived through the wonderful environment of his special school, that is dedicated to caring for autistic children. My son is a wonderful charming character, with a wonderful joy for life, and is a shining example of how the right caring and educational environment can help children like my wonderful son shine and talk his place in society that he utterly deserves.

Autism can affect any family, we had no history of Autism in our family, and our son was diagnosed at 3 years old. The support and guidance we received from our local authority has been superb and has helped Nathaniel develop into a lovely little boy.

Life is very difficult for parents of autistic children, but I find the hardest part is the ignorance of people who are not effected, and so choose to ignore and judge and even worse discriminate and deprive these children and there families of the valuated support care and time, to help in day to day life.

If any one of these so called protestors have a ounce of conscience, or care about how other people lives are effected by Autism they would be supportive, kind and want the community to help others. I would whole heartedly welcome a place that is giving support and care to those less fortunate than these idiots who seem to be so wrapped up in there own selfish little lives. If they had even bothered to find out about autistic people, the so called fears, and pre historic damaging views of these small town folk, they would understand how frightening and difficult can be when you are living with autism, and open there arms and hearts into endorsing a supporting such a superb and wonderful place.

I only pray that each of these Residents never find that one of there children or grandchildren are effected by autism, because I fell there views would change dramatically as they all seem to be so self absorbed, I feel very sorry for them

Our lives are so much richer for Nathaniel, and than fully he will never have to be judged by this disgrace of a community.

Thank goodness my son will never have to be in the company of the biggoted idiots

Mrs Nicola Hope, 19th October 2006

Hello
I have just read with disgust an article in the LEP regarding a care centre for children with Autism.
I have a son who is 6 years old and has Autism, I would love nothing more than to have a child who was ‘Normal’. You do not know what difficulties I go through every day with my son and it’s not helped by people who don’t understand what autism is and what life is like for a family like my.
May I say I hope none of your villages every have to suffer with a child with autism.
I am disgusted in your village and it’s views.
Adrian Hope, 19th October 2006

Dear all,
Positive Childcare Limited would like to extend sincere apologise to any parties unduly concerned regarding the planning application for 1a Guide Road. It is with great sadness that we have received so many disturbing comments about the proposed childcare services that we hope to provide.

It would appear that there is some confusion regarding the use of the property and the type of child that we will accommodate. We hope to dispel the completely untrue and unfounded comments that have been circulated.

We will in no way attempt to address the inaccurate gossip that has so far generated so much concern. What we will do is address each point in the statement of intent that has been used as a foundation on which to base the incorrect information being discussed in the community.

We would like to thank everybody who has taken the time to discuss with us in an honest and appropriate way for their comments of support for our project. We are sure that as the truth circulates more and more of the community will realise that this is a worthwhile unobtrusive proposal.

We would also like to extend our thanks and apologise to those who have received some highly inappropriate comments that have caused offence. Great understanding has been shown to account for what will hopefully be comments regretted by those that have chosen to make them.

It is also important to note that Positive childcare limited openly welcome and endorse any communication between parties that will provide a correctly informed opinion of the project. At no time will we publish material that will try to suggest that it is an official West Lancashire District Council document.

So far we have followed the letter of the law in relation to planning application. We have consulted with local councillors and professionally appointed persons. We liaise and are informed by Government regulatory bodies and strive to exceed the requirements of the Children Act and Care standards Act. We fully intended in due course to have an open evening to inform interested parties of our plans. We will now endeavour to bring forward these plans to address any immediate concerns. The date for this meeting will be announced shortly. In the mean time, if anybody would like to talk to us or invite us to a properly organised meeting we will be more than happy to attend.

The main parties concerned with the administration of this childcare project were born in Tarleton and have lived most of their lives within the community. Local people will know to whom we refer. As local people, they would in no way entertain the type of business that the miss information has suggested. Mr Cropper has not been involved with any other project in the area.

There has already been significant contribution to the local economy with all services used to date coming from within the village. A number of other businesses in the area have already been approached and agreed to be service providers over a long term period, further promoting development for our local business. We have equally been approached by a number of suitably qualified persons from within the community seeking employment opportunities.

The original report was compiled to cater for a maximum usage scenario of the home. This was compiled on the advice of our architect. We do however not suggest that our architect had any involvement in the content of the report. The original has since been revised accordingly.

Statement of intent

Introduction
The property at Guide Road consists of two dwellings joined together by an existing utility room. There are gardens to both sides of the property and a parking facility to the centre and side. For descriptive purposes, we have divided the house into south side and north side.

Positive Childcare Limited provides residential and respite care to children with severe challenging behaviour and social needs. Through a minimum ratio of one to one supervised care, behaviour modification programmes and social development, programmes are developed to meet the specific needs of each individual child. To achieve the standard of care required to meet the needs of the children, tailored residential facilities need to be provided to develop an environment conducive to learning whilst maintaining a safe and secure facility.
It is the duty of any parent, guardian or childcare provider to provide a safe and secure environment.

It is the intent of Positive Childcare Limited to develop number 1a Guide Road to a standard of accommodation that provides a warm, homely and individual environment whilst providing safety and security to children and staff alike. The property will be a home to a maximum of six children, three being accommodated in one side of the dwelling and three in the other.

The emphasis is on a warm and homely environment. It is of paramount importance to provide as near as possible a normal family setting. Any employer has the legal responsibility to provide for the Health, Safety and Welfare of their employees and any other who might be affected by their acts or omissions.

The average age of the children within the home environment is ten to fifteen years old.

The children who will be living at Guide Road as if it was their own home will be autistic children.

Please read a report produced by the Children’s commissioner for England.

Although this does not cover a children’s home in specific, it provides a useful description of current needs for education. It is a priority of Positive Childcare Limited to provide education.

Taken from the BBC website.

The children's commissioner for England has said it is shameful that the country is failing to provide adequately for children with autism.

Sir Al Aynsley-Green - who recently met families with autistic children - said it was "shocking and appalling".

The National Autistic Society says more than half the 90,000 children with autism in the UK are not in the sort of school their parents believe is best.

Sir Al said teachers and schools should be better trained to cope.

"It's appalling and it's shameful for our country, the fifth richest economy in the world, to have so many children that are not being looked after and given the resources they need to develop to their full potential," he said in a BBC interview.

"It is shocking and appalling."
Understanding

Sir Al said: "In my office last week we had to be very careful about not overloading these children with bright colours, with noise, to have quiet space for them to relax in and to be comfortable in.

The National Autistic Society has campaigned at Downing Street

"These aren't things that cost large amounts of money. It's a cultural change.

"It is a way of understanding the lives of these children and how we can improve it for them."

Ruth McNichol, whose son George has Asperger's syndrome, told BBC News, teachers needed to be trained to deal with autistic children.

"There appears to be a lot of ignorance about autism and the particular education techniques that are required to teach children with autism.

"It is particularly bad when children make the transition from primary to secondary school.

Ms McNichol said when her son had started secondary school "he was bullied, he withdrew from lessons in the classroom and the staff didn't appear to know how to engage with him".

"At the end of his first year at secondary school, despite not being in any way disruptive, he started self-harming and he was obviously in a great deal of distress," she said.

It is estimated by the National Autistic Society that there are 90,000 children with autistic spectrum disorders - which affect their social interaction and communication - and fewer than 8,000 specialist places.

A spokesman for the Department for Education and Skills said special educational needs were a government priority.

There had been major increases in education funding and local authorities' budgeted expenditure on special needs had also increased, from £2.8bn in 2001-02 to £4.1bn in 2005-06, with more to come, the spokesman said.

"We will also look at the case for further funding in the current spending review, which includes a specific focus on services for disabled children."

He added: "We have always been clear that inclusion is about the quality of children's education, and how they are helped to learn, achieve and participate in the life of their school, whether that is a mainstream or a special school."

There was good practice guidance for local authorities and schools on meeting the needs of children with autism.

The accommodation will be used as follows:

Dwelling 1 (South)

Ground Floor
The entrance to the property is via a Porch leading into the hall.

Room 1 Lounge
The lounge area shall be the central focal point of the house allowing the children in residence the ability to develop social and personal skills in a controlled environment. There shall be a television, DVD, Video and sound system for entertainment.

Is it not normal and a fact taken for granted for any living room in any home to have a television, DVD, Video and Sound system for entertainment? Why would anyone imagine that this home is different and why will it create a problem?

There will be no noise pollution than beyond normal household levels. The children are monitored by a care worker at all times. It will be less obtrusive than for example a number of barking dogs.

Room 2 Sensory stimulation Room
The sensory room is designed to explore sight, sound and touch. Through the use of audio and visual aids the children will be encouraged to develop basic skills. The room will also be a focal point for skills development in life skills including for example, decorating a cake. The predominant aim of this room is education.

A specially prepared curriculum of personal development will be available to all children in our care. The Curriculum and individual needs will be assessed, prepared and monitored by highly qualified childcare professionals.

Room 3 Kitchen
The existing kitchen will be renewed with a modern kitchen incorporating health and safety requirements, food hygiene and child safety specific additions. As well as preparing all meals, the kitchen will also be used to develop Childs life skills in basic food preparation.
Life skills are integral to the development of the children in our care.

Room 4 Bathroom
The bathroom shall be fitted with a basin, toilet, bath and shower. This will be the main ablutions room for this side of the dwelling. Children will be encouraged to maintain there own personal hygiene.

Life skills coaching

Room 5 Bedroom 1

This room shall be set aside for emergency child placement.

There is a need for this provision within Lancashire.

First Floor
From the top of the stairs, each room is accessed via a landing.

X3 Rooms Bedroom 2 and 3
6 / 7
Each bedroom shall be decorated to the individual child. Children shall be encouraged to take ownership of their personal space and develop a theme for the room. This will promote self identity and personal self worth.

An integral focus of childcare provision is maintaining as normal living conditions as possible. Is it not the same in every Childs bedroom that their personality and current interests are reflected in the posters and decoration of the room?

Room 8 Bathroom
This is a small bathroom containing toilet, shower and hand basin.

Room 9 Study room
This room shall be equipped with a computer and desk area for study. The room shall also be a relax room with bean bags and soft furnishings.

Further educational development.

Dwelling 2 (North)

Ground floor
The entrance to the property is via a front door leading into a vestibule.

Room 2 study room
This room shall be equipped with a computer and desk area for study. The room shall also be a relax room with bean bags and soft furnishings. The existing on suit facilities will be suitably divided from the study and relax area.

First floor
From the top of the stairs, each room is accessed via a landing.

The bathroom will be developed to include a separate toilet and hand basin.

X3 Rooms Bedroom 1, 2 and 3
5 / 6 / 7

Each bedroom shall be decorated to the individual child. Children shall be encouraged to take ownership of their personal space and develop a theme for the room. This will promote self identity and personal self worth.

Connecting utility room
The utility room comprises four rooms.

Room 1 Entrance hall
This room shall be the staff administration and relaxation area. There shall be sofas and individual lockers for staff personal possessions.

The provision of Welfare for staff.

Room 2 Office
This shall be the administration area for the whole business. It will contain computer and filing systems. This will be a secure area with restricted access as it will hold all staff and child personal details.

As per the requirements of the data protection act and normal business practice.

The office will be the hub of the telephone and internet access.

Room 4 Disabled toilet and shower.
Although the company for health and safety reasons cannot employ disabled people for direct contact with the children, we do otherwise operate a disability equality policy for administration work. For this reason, the disabled facilities are accessible from the office and staff area only.

As per the disability discrimination act.

Room 5 Laundry
To cater for the amount of washing the children will generate, it is planned to install two washing machines and two dryers.

We cannot envisage standard domestic washing and drying machines creating any noise pollution above normal household levels.

Current use of washing machines at the property has not been cause for complaint.

Area to rear of property
This is a secluded area to the west side of the dwelling. This will be used for the storage of waste bins. There shall be different bins for recycling and a further addition will be compost for all suitable waste.

This area is close to the boundary of the adjoining property. Although on the initial statement of intent this was described as a recreation area, this has been revised to the above statement. The area shall be fenced off at each end and not accessible by the children.

Future intent
The north facing gable end is perfect for a conservatory. This is being considered as an ideal development to create an on site educational facility which can be overseen by a qualified teacher and teaching assistant. This is well within the realms of normal property development.

Staffing Levels
All positions will be full time, and staff will receive incentives to commit to long term employment to increase child carer relationship development.

There is a difference between organisational staff and the home staff. The original staff numbers were a comparative document to show planning application how many jobs this project will create.

The numbers of staff present on site are dictated by the childcare provision and shift rota system. It is envisaged that during the day, there will be at any onetime six staff. Further information on staff levels and rota system is commercially sensitive information and not for general release.

Parking Facilities
There will be provision for off street parking for six cars and the company MPV.

Additional overflow off street parking will be provided at 161 Hesketh Lane with the company MPV providing a shuttle service. There will be extensive groundwork required to provide hard standing areas for parking with the replanting of trees and landscaping to blend the parking and housing together.

There is currently room for six cars and the MPV to park within the boundary of the property. Staff will be encouraged to share transport wherever possible. Although not relevant to the planning application, provision has been made at 161 Hesketh Lane for any overflow parking.

Any landscaping will be at Guide Road. By extensive groundwork, we refer to replacing current hard standing areas with new surfacing. (Hard Landscaping)

New trees and shrubs will be planted to provide a screen between the parking and the home. (Soft Landscaping)

The off street parking facility will be used in its entirety. This will be an improvement on the current parking trends associated with 1a Guide Road.

The gardens to each dwelling are an important asset to the care of the children as basic garden maintenance will encourage the children to take ownership of their environment.

The gardens will be maintained to a high standard at all times.

Security and safety
It is planned to install cameras, lighting, signage, fences and fire alarms.

Cameras: There is a requirement for a minimum of five cameras.

X 3 for perimeter monitoring for general security.

CCTV is now an approved practice of many city or town centres. We believe, that it is planned to provide CCTV coverage to the Tarleton village shopping area.
There are many private and business properties that employ the use of CCTV cameras for security and peace of mind. The children’s home intends to use discreet fixed cameras appropriate for any private dwelling covering the main access areas of the property. The cameras will be fitted by a NACOSS approved installation company and will in no way encroach on any area outside of the property boundary.

Lighting: Security
There is a requirement for a minimum of three lights. One light to the front of the property will be permanently on at night whilst the remaining two will provide light upon activation of the sensor.
It is common practice for any business or private dwelling to use external property lighting. The light to the front of the property will be an existing ornamental lamppost within the boundary of the property. It will provide no more luminance than the existing public lamppost.

Safety
There will be safety light throughout the two dwellings sited to provide emergency lighting to all exits. These lights will have a backup power supply.
This is required under current fire precautions legislation. The lighting will be no brighter than a night light used in many private dwellings.

Signage: All emergency escape routes will be clearly marked, with additional signage provided where required. For example, First aid box, fire extinguisher and bespoke signage for any additional safety precautions.
As per health, safety and Fire regulations.

Fences: It is planned to erect a security fence to the full perimeter of the property including vehicle and pedestrian gates. Although this provides security from crime, the main aim is to provide a protected area in which the children can move freely yet safely.

The purpose of any fence or barrier is to delineate a boundary, deter casual trespass and delay intentional intrusion. Every property owner strives to provide these measures with the additional benefit of privacy.

With the additional requirement of protecting any child from unwanted outside attention, it is even more important to provide suitable fencing. In this context, we intend to erect a closed board fence at 1.4 metres height to the existing boundary of the property.

Such a fence will not withstand impact from a HGV. Statistically over the Last thirteen years, there have been three recorded impacts on the current fence. There has been no reported incident of a HGV plundering through the fence. If the local council highways and safety department had identified this as an accident black spot, we are confident that suitable signage or traffic calming measures would be in place.

Recent renewal of the fence included replacing the fence twelve inches into the legal boundary of the property.

Fire extinguishers: There is a requirement for:

X6 Fire extinguishers

X2 Fire blankets

As per health, safety and Fire regulations.

Energy efficiency and recycling
Positive Childcare Limited will strive to conserve energy and use clean renewable energy and will actively recycle all waste. To achieve our aim, we will research household wind turbines and solar panels. We shall always use energy efficient technology such as energy efficient light bulbs.

Summary
The main amendments include:

• A reduction from eight to six children.
• A reduction from eight to six bedrooms
• The change of use of two rooms from bedrooms to study rooms
• The change of use of the rear area from play area to bin area
• Staffing levels reduced to cater for two less children. An amended shift rota maximising staff care, minimising staff on duty.

Everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life, his home and his correspondence. There are numerous homes throughout the UK and throughout the North West of England that provide exactly the same service that we propose. These homes interact within the community with no adverse effect.

Regards,
Trevor Cropper, Company Director, 17th October 2006

A flyer was posted through my door yesterday with an alert about the planning application for 1a Guide Road. There is a planning application for the house(s) to be converted into a residential home for children with severe and challenging behaviour.
The flyer raises lots of concerns, but it borders on scaremongering. The whole thing reminds me of a fuss that was created for a Residential home for autistic children in Mere Brow. The Guide Road plan appears to be a good idea to me. It is a detatched house, in a quiet rural location, which might actually help these children. They have to have a home somewhere and nimbyism just clouds the issue. The facility will have 1 to 1 care at least, 24 hours a day. The flyer asks how safe will the local community be? The facility will be fenced around, and again with 1 to 1 care how are these children realistically going to cause that much trouble. The flyer also says that the facility will also have dvd, video, tv's and sound systems (at least 2 of each) - so we have 3 of each in our house, and my neighbours don't complain, again there will be carers on site, and I'm sure they wont allow blaring tv's music etc. The flyer then goes on to suggest that HGV's will go ploundering through the hedges and fences of this property, is the author seriously trying to tell us that HGV drivers cannot drive past any house with fences and hedges without crashing!!!!!
The flyer talks about the proposed installation of 2 washing machine and 2 tumble dryers creating noise pollution and going on day and night - maybe the author needs to get their machines checked, ours don't make that much noise. Finally, the flyer says that more noise will be made when the children are outside they'll create more noise pollution with the bouncy castles and go karts etc. While I sympathise with the neighbours, children will always make noise while playing outside - it's good for them, and I am sure will be no noisier than if 2 families moved in to the house(s) with a couple of kids.
I am sure there are going to be some teething problems, but why don't we see the positives this project could have, and not the nimbyism this flyer advocates.
Regards,
Mr A Parkinson, 15th October 2006

LETTER DATED 15th OCTOBER 2006 REMOVED ON 20th OCTOBER 2006 AT REQUEST OF AUTHOR

I am writing in reply and support of Mrs Curtis' letter dated 12th January 2006.
In early 2004, Ihad to make a decision regarding the future of my family. At the time, we were living in Liverpool and following a change of career we felt that we wanted a better life for our 4 children. A decision was made to sell the family home and move to a temporary home in a static caravan at the Riverside Leisure Centre. Unfortunately finances didn't improve and we are still there. We put our names on the council housing list.
We check with WLDC Housing dept regularly and have been told in no uncertain terms that we will never get a house off the council, anywhere.
An application has been placed by Cosmopolitan Housing to build new houses in Banks, some of these have been earmarked as council properties. we contacted Cosmopolitan and were told to contact WLDC and put our names on the list. WLDC Housing told us we had no chance. We do have a small 'local connection', our daughter attends Greenbank High in Southport, our 4 yr old twins attend a nursery in Crossens and are due to start at St. Stephens in September. I work for a large educational employer but above all else, we pay council tax to live on a caravan park where we receive nothing in return. The bins, roads, lighting, water supply etc are all supplied by the site, non residents receive the same as those who live there and to top it all we have to move off site from 7th January till the 1st of March. This means we are living outside WLDC area for 15% of the year yet still pay the same.
Is this fair? Do the seasonal agricultural workers pay council tax?
Dave Foy, 18th January 2006

I live in Hesketh Bank currently but have lived in Tarleton for over 20 years but because of the house prices my husband and I and our two small children are set to be homeless. The house that we are renting is being sold by the landlord and there is nothing available to rent below £600 and nothing to buy below £142,000.
We have applied to the council for a house but because of the lack of houses available they will only put us in Skelmersdale despite having lived here for most of my life. I have a 3yr old and a 5mth old baby to consider and the only feasible mortgage we could afford would be in Chorley, away from my family, friends and my daughters school. Will there ever be a drop in the house prices around here or are more and more residents being pushed out to make way for immigrants in this ever growing village.
Mrs Curtis, 12th January 2006

Dear Sir,

Are any of the local residents aware of the planning application(2005/1367) regarding accommodation of agricultural workers at Riccadonna, Hundred End, Hesketh Bank.

The application is for 96 workers who are part of a workforce of 130 who are needed to (quote from the applicants supporting information) work on their uniquely intensive cropping regime . If you are a farmer reading this, your comments on how much land whether outside or under glass would be required to utilise this amount of workers would be appreciated.

I have been in farming for almost 20 years and I estimate if the applicant (Mr and Mrs Edge) were farming outside then they would need to own almost all of the farming land in Hesketh Bank, if just growing under glass they would need up to 80 acres to employ the amount of staff as suggested (year round).

What is happening is they are a gangmaster set up, whilst this is not illegal, saying the workers all work on your land surely is.

In a meeting with Huntapac personnel manager in early December 2005 he confirmed that they employed 110 of Riccadonna workers.

They are also employed at salads to go in Skelmersdale and at Keypac (a poultry packer in Preston)

These take the bulk of the workers but lots of other farmers take a few ( I know who 99% of these farmers are but will not list them here as they have done nothing wrong)

Grace Edge seems to think that she is above the law and basically the planning application is for a 96 BED HOTEL IN GREEN BELT LAND.

You can view the application here-

http://webdocs.westlancsdc.gov.uk/planweb/appsummary.aspx?appno=2005/1367

if you click on view documents from 2005-onwards, then click on plan app supporting info (if you are a Farmer reading this statement then please be careful as you will fall off your seat laughing when you read the absolute lies that are in it).

Any comments would be appreciated

Jon Bragg, 1st January 2006

Now we're getting somewhere!
If you agree the guy got it wrong on the height of the railings why shouldn't we as residents point it out to the others? You ask did the builder not know he had built it too high? Come on Brian.
As regards the state of the roads (surface, gutters and grids) all you have to do is contact your local Councillor and complain. As I said only they can give you the answers so stop whinging.
The Green Lane link is being pursued but due to a past Tarleton Parish Council Chairman's actions this has been deemed by Lancs CC as not important. If you would take the trouble you would find that a lot of effort is being put in to get the Green Lane link built.
If we are to believe what the Tarleton Parish Council tell us then a facility will soon be available for young people to go to. You didn't know about it? Go to your Parish Council meetings and find out for yourself - next one is on Tuesday 20th Dec at 7.30 in the Over 60's club. See you there eh?
Dave Rydings, 24th November 2005

In response to Mr Dave Rydings letter of the 19th, no I dont think planning is pointless, yes the builder did wrong and the maker and erector of the railings to a certain extent did wrong. But the point I was making was instead of putting so much effort into whinging about the railings why not try putting some more effort into complaining about the state of our local roads. I've read these pages for along time but this has been the only time I've felt that some people seem to whinge over something so trivial; 3-4 people even congratulating people on complaining. Did anybody bother to get in touch with the builder? Did he know they had been made and erected to high?

As for what my council tax should be spent on ---
Better road improvements i.e. Green Lane extension to get hgv's out of Tarleton and Banks.
Grids being cleaned out, gutters cleaned.
A club opened for under 18's that is open Fri-Sun for the kids to have somewhere to go,that way they're off the streets and safe.
Brian Curran, 23rd November 2005

No Brian your point wasn't missed you made your feeling very clear but I'm sure you'll agree when I said that all you had to do was contact your local councillor to get the answers was the right one. Have you done so or do you just want to whinge?
Are you interested in the answers you will get from them?
Where do you think you your £1000 council tax should be spent?
What do you think your £1000 council tax is spent on?
Do you consider that planning is pointless and that anybody should be allowed to build where what and how they want?
I am interested in reading your replies.
Dave Rydings, 19th November, 2005

In response to Dave Rydings letter....
By road sweeper I didn't mean someone picking up litter in the main part of the village I meant a road sweeper as in sweeps the road/gutter i.e. mechanical sweeper.
I knew they were getting ready to resurface Gorse lane as it was marked out a few weeks ago but all they are doing is cutting the patches up and relaying the patches.
As house holders in Tarleton we are being ripped off by the council,we pay over £1000 council tax a year for half our household refuse to be collected (down from 52 to 26 weeks) - recyclable rubbish was collected on top of this.Then we only get the roads patched up / repatched.
Like I said in my 1st letter the builder did wrong,but surely there's more important things to be doing.
Maybe I didn't make my point clear enough or was my point missed?
Brian Curran, 18th November 2005

I am confused by Brian Curran's letter of the 5th. Whingers bordering on hatred - come on Brian , that's a bit strong isn't it?.
The point I made about the railings at the front of the old barn on Church Road was to request the owner to abide by the AGREED plans. If you read the Parish Council's minutes for the September meeting you will see that they have lodged an objection to them as well. So by your argument you helped elect a Council of whingers. If you didn't vote then you have no reason to make any comment whatsoever (That is using your way of arguing a point).
As I understand (from asking my local Councillor) the surface of Gorse Lane is about to be improved so again Brian if you have a complaint all you need to do is check with the Councillor elected to represent you.
I see our street cleaner most days in the village spending a lot of time picking up rubbish carelessly thrown down by inconsiderate people - but yet again, if you contacted the Council you would be able to find out for yourself just how many times the road sweeper is deployed in the village.
Lastly Brian, have you filled in the consultation document issued by Acland Bracewell asking for residents views about the redevelopment of Mark Square? Are you suggesting that nothing is done at all? If so tell Acland Bracewell and stop whinging!
Dave Rydings, 6th November 2005

Tarleton Whingers
In response to a few of the letters on this site.There seems to be a lot of complaining about what is going on in the Tarleton area,some of which I agree with. I've lived here for 13 years and I've seen big changes a lot of which are not all for the best. But to whinge so much it borders on hatred is going too far.
What am I going on about? The railings around the old barn at the top of Blackgate lane. It's a shame those concerned don't put more effort into whinging like old women about the state of the local roads, especialy gorse lane and the roads on the moss.
Alright the builders have errected a fence thats too high,they did wrong but I can understand why; because if there wasnt a big enough barrier someone could trip and fall through the big window then sue the ownersfor damages and get a nice big payout - so someones watching his back. I dont blame them.
Those shouting the loudest don't even live near it, but they do live near Gorse lane which is in such bad repair it's getting dangerous. So why not shout and complain about that, or do we always go for the easy option. Also when was the last time we saw a road sweeper in the village.
Bracewells want to redo Mark square. They say its out dated, and they want to combat the vandalism and graffiti. How are the going to do this? By giving the vandals a glass walkway and a fountain. That makes sense doesn't it. Also who's going to pay for it? We are: higher rent means higher prices.THINK ABOUT IT. So why not get our priorities right befor whinging.
Brian Curran, 5th November 2005

Mark Square Development - Every Little Helps
Oh I say chaps, why not include in the scheme a Rural Operations Centre for the local Police Force as part of the planning gain for the community?
There will be plenty of space as local shops are squashed flat by Tesco's at Burscough.
Bob Robinson, 2nd November 2005

Dear Sir,
I walked past the old barn on the corner of Church Road and Blackgate Lane the other day. The illegal railings have been completely painted, gravel laid inside the enclosed area and large wooden troughs set just inside the fence line.
Now I ask myself would I have done that knowing that I been told to abide by the agreed plans by the local authority?
I understand that an appeal has gone in to keep the railings at the current height but this action taken by the builder/owner beggers belief.
On what grounds does he justify his action?
Dave Rydings, 4th September 2005

It is sad that you have to leave the village because of housing costs Miss Granger.
It's not just the cost of a house though but a) the cost of land, b), the location of that land and c), an increasing population causing a rise in demand. This is especially so in West Lancs now there is a block on any large scale housing developments.
A barn like that should not have been allowed to have remained empty for so long. I understand that the system in this country is that no one can force you to develop a property you own. You just have to keep it in a safe condition. It is therefore great to see the barn being turned into 2 (?) homes and be brought back to life again.
The asking price though bears no resemblance to its original cost. It will be interesting to see just how long it takes to sell and for how much.
This all started off though on the subject planning regulations. I would be interested in your views on planning Miss Granger - especially on the subject of what should be done if they are ignored. For instance - do you think the should be more relaxed than they currently are?
Dave Rydings, 27th August 2005

In response to Mr Rydings question (dated 20th August 2005) "If you had the money would you buy it?". The answer is yes, I most certainly would.

Although, like all my peers, I am unable to buy ANY house in Tarleton, let alone a converted barn. I will be moving out of the village in time, leaving it with a whole generation of twentysomethings missing. But hey, that's another argument.........."
Miss H. Granger, 25th August 2005

Anyone in Hesketh Bank who is concerned about West Lancashire District Council's planning policy for the village should be aware of a proposal to build on the field beside 90 Moss Lane, almost facing the junction with Boundary Lane.

It is a relatively small scheme, but the density and impact is unprecedented and has longer-term implications.

The plan for this narrow tract of horticultural land (behind the post-box) is for 11 properties (3/4 bedroom) and an access road. Ominously the plans show the road to be gated on to adjacent nursery land, rather suggesting a future 'Phase 2' .

Developers claiming 'affordable housing' have licence to cut costs. But in this instance there are no scheduled garage spaces and provision for car parking and play space is very inadequate. What might be acceptable in a new town with parks and good communal facilities does not make sense in our sort of rural context. Good planning in this day and age must take proper account of social and environmental issues, and these sort of cramped building applications are quite often a commercial 'try on'.

Action in respect of our local very stretched domestic services is unclear, and neighbours most closely affected have apparently not received answers to a range of important written questions made to a planning official some time ago. Now there is a suggestion that the plans may be slipped through Planning Committee imminently. Hopefully our two elected West Lancashire councillors are closely in touch with what is a very questionable situation, local attitudes, and the need for much more debate and consultation.
Trevor Roberts, 22nd August 2005

I think Miss Granger you miss the point - The complaint made was that the railings were not to the height as agreed by the developer and WLDC.
How would you feel if you agreed with a builder to build you an extension to your house and he put the door in a different place than you had agreed to?
If you cannot appreciate the logic behind planning regulations I would suggest you consider what life would be like without any.
I agree with you that it is considerably better than it was but that doesn't mean the person who bought it can please himself what he does with it.
To many these regulations may appear on the surface as pointless but if you were to delve into it more you may f