220 homes with open space at Garswood Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield, St Helens

What was proposed

The application sought 220 homes, internal roads, public open space, play facilities, landscaping, infrastructure and associated works.

“The application is seeking full planning permission for the erection of 220 dwellings with associated, internal roads, landscaping including new play facilities, and other associated works / infrastructure.”

“Planning Committee 7 th October 2025 P/2025/0043/FUL 1.11 A network of areas of open space is proposed throughout the site. Approximately 9,560 m² of amenity greenspace will be distributed throughout the site, particularly along site boundaries, at key entrance points (e.g. Billinge Road and Garswood Road), and between housing clusters. Provision is made for children’s play via a Local Area for Play (LAP) of circa 191 m².”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The site was a 10.02-hectare agricultural parcel on the edge of Garswood, near homes, roads, shops, services, schools, a medical centre and a railway station.

“To the north, the site is bounded by the B5207 Billinge Road, beyond which lies open countryside and the Seneley Green Recreation Ground. The eastern boundary abuts existing residential dwellings on Smock Lane. The southern edge is enclosed by established vegetation, with the Garswood Sports & Social Club bowling green and residential properties fronting Garswood Road situated beyond.”

“The site lies on the north-western edge of Garswood, approximately 2km west of Ashton-in-Makerfield and 2km east of Billinge. It is within walking distance of shops, services, and public transport. Garswood Primary School is around 500m to the south- east, Garswood Medical Centre 400m away, and Garswood Railway Station approximately 600m to the south. Bus stops are located on Billinge Road and Garswood Road, adjoining the site’s northern and western boundaries.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

An earlier screening opinion considered up to 250 homes with vehicle and pedestrian access and found that an environmental impact assessment was not required.

“EIA/2021/0002/SCREEN - Screening opinion relating to a proposal of up to 250 dwellings with vehicular access and pedestrian access. EIA not required 14.12.2021.”

Officer report

What consultees said

Most consultees raised no objection, subject to conditions or contributions; the parish council objected over growth, infrastructure, transport, flooding, play provision and local services.

“Flooding concerns are noted, particularly at the junction of Billinge Road and Smock Lane, with a request for assurances that proposed ponds will mitigate risk. With respect to play provision, the Council questions the sustainability of a new on-site play area and suggests that developer contributions would be better directed towards enhancing existing nearby facilities.”

Officer report

Who spoke at the meeting

Three local residents presented objections, and the applicant’s agent presented the application and answered members’ questions.

The committee’s decision

The committee granted planning permission, delegated condition changes to the Head of Planning Services, and required the legal agreement and planning conditions.

“Grant Planning Permission with authority delegated to the Head of Planning Services to add, amend, or remove conditions as they deem necessary, with the decision being subject to the completion of a legal agreement and a schedule of appropriate conditions:”

“The legal agreement is to secure a financial contribution of £2,030,990.24 (plus monitoring fee) as detailed below:”

Minutes