General storage use at Moss Bridge Barn, Lathom, Ormskirk

“The application seeks consent for the retrospective change of use of the building from agricultural storage to permit general storage uses (use Class B8). No building works are proposed. The application form states that the use commenced on 19 September 2024.”

“Use is made of the existing service area serving the building and the access onto Moss Bridge Lane.”

“The site comprises a modern farm building measuring 12m by 30m by 6.5m to roof apex with associated service yard and access onto Moss Bridge Lane. There is mature woodland screening along its boundary with Moss Bridge Lane and its other three boundaries.”

“The site lies outside of the development limits of a settlement and within the Green Belt. The site also lies within the setting of a listed building and near to the Leeds Liverpool Canal…”

“2006/1418 Consideration of Details for Prior Approval – Erection of agricultural storage building. Prior Notification – Agriculture – Details Approved.”

“2015/0308/PNC Application for determination as to whether prior approval of details is required – Part conversion and change of use of an existing agricultural storage building to a residential unit, alongside associated internal and external alterations. Refused…”

“To conclude, it is considered that the proposal does not constitute inappropriate development in the Green Belt and therefore the proposal is acceptable in principle. Furthermore, subject to the attached conditions, any adverse impacts on acknowledged interests including residential amenity, visual amenity, highway safety, mineral safeguarding, heritage and biodiversity, would not be significant.”

“That the application should be approved subject to the attached conditions.”

“Canal and River Trust – No objections but points out that Moss Bridge (No35) is a Grade II listed with a weight limit of 10 T mgw permanent weight restriction.”

“Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – HSE do not advise, on safety grounds, against the granting of planning permission in this case.”

“Lathom Parish Council – Clarification is sought in respect to retention of trees, the type and size of the vehicles accessing the barn, time and periods during the day and whether the barn will be accessed during a weekend and what the agricultural storage barn will be used for.”

“Do not understand why the new owners want to change use retrospectively. • Is this the first step in applications for subsequent planning applications for domestic dwelling(s). • Impact on traffic. • The applicant has not contacted people who live nearby to explain to them the plans.”

“The Assistant Director Planning and Regulatory Services submitted a report on planning application 2025/0360/FUL, relating to Moss Bridge Barn, Moss Bridge Lane, Lathom, L40 4BE.”

“RESOLVED: That planning application 2025/0360/FUL be approved subject to conditions as set out in the report.”