Mill demolition and compound at Beehive Mill, Moor Lane, Darwen

“Proposed Development: Demolition of mill building, change of use to form temporary contractor’s compound in association with the adjacent development site, laying of hardstanding and erection of fencing/gates fronting Moor Lane…”

“The proposed development initially involves the complete demolition of Beehive Mill. Only the electricity substation would be retained. A stretch of 2.4m palisade fencing and a gate would be installed adjacent to Moor Lane. The site would then be used as a temporary construction compound for the adjacent major housing development at Holden Fold. New hardstanding would be laid in support of that temporary use.”

“The application site is a disused mill building and logistics area, which is located within the settlement of Darwen. The site formerly provided a number of commercial functions, including office space and storage/warehousing. Vehicular access is gained from the south off Moor Lane. The existing building is externally finished in a range of materials, and it has a limited level of architectural value.”

“The proposed development is recommended to be granted planning permission, subject to the conditions detailed in Section 5.”

“On balance, the proposals would be satisfactory from a technical point of view, with all issues having been addressed through the application process, or capable of being controlled or mitigated through appropriately worded planning conditions.”

“The key issues to be addressed in determining this application are as follows;”

“Design and visual amenity ➢ Heritage assets ➢ Safeguarding amenity and public safety ➢ Highways and parking ➢ Ecological assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain ➢ Archaeology ➢ Land contamination…”

“BwD Public Protection – No objections. Should this application be approved, conditions should be imposed to control demolition/redevelopment works, the hours of deliveries associated with the contractor’s compound and sources of unexpected contamination.”

“BwD Ecological Advisor – Thank you for re-consulting GMEU on the amended plans and bat survey (BOW17_1676 V1 23.05.2025) relating to this application. Sufficient bat survey work has now been undertaken as part of this application, including 2 emergence surveys on the site. No evidence of bats roosting was found and no bats were identified emerging from the buildings during the survey work. I would therefore amend my previous comments to:”

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

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