477-home layout amendment at Land at Holden Fold, Darwen

“Proposed development: Variation of Condition / Minor Material Amendment for: Variation of conditions Nos 2 "approved drawings", 4 "Boundary Treatment" and 30 "Landscaping" pursuant to planning application 10/23/0587 'Erection of 477 residential dwellings with public open space, landscaping, sustainable drainage systems (SuDs), demolition of existing stable buildings, new parking associated with the sports pavilion, additional parking off Knowle Lane, and vehicular access…”

“Members will be aware of an application reported to this meeting of the Committee proposing a Deed of Variation (DoV) to the Section 106 Agreement associated with the development under application ref. 10/25/0954. The variation seeks to remove the schedule requiring on-site Affordable Homes.”

“The application site comprises 18.5 hectares (45 acres). It is located at the northern edge of Darwen and is made up of pastoral agricultural fields and the site of the former Darwen Moorland High School - previously developed land - included as such on the Council’s Brownfield Register. The school closed in 2008 and the buildings were demolished in 2016. Since then, level areas have been created for use as playing fields.”

“APPROVE – Subject to a Section 106 Agreement to secure payment of a commuted sum totalling £3,457,804 for additional primary school places in Darwen, secondary school and special needs places across the borough; highway improvement works and sustainable transport initiatives necessary to support the development; additional General Practice capacity; Green Infrastructure / Public Open Space provision towards the upgrade of Square Meadows Sports facility; provision for…”

“(i) Delegated authority is given to the Strategic Director of Growth and Development and the Deputy Chief Executive to approve planning permission, subject to an agreement under Section 106 of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, relating to the payment of £3,457,804 (including a monitoring fee), together with all the non-adopted green spaces and footways being dedicated for public use.”

“The proposal remains consistent with the objectives of the Local Plan 2021 – 2037, and the National Planning Policy Framework (The Framework), and broadly consistent with the site-specific Holden Fold Masterplan.”

“No significant adverse impacts would arise from the proposed amendments, which are relatively minor, with specific reference to living conditions / amenity; flood risk; ecology / biodiversity; landscape character; design, and transport / accessibility.”

“Consultation was limited to public consultation by means of display of site notices and a press notice published 9 th October 2025, and to Ward Councillors. No comments were received.”

“Decision under Town and Country Planning Acts and Regulations –”

“RESOLVED – Approved subject to the conditions highlighted in the Director’s Report.”