Plans for new homes and sports pitches in Hyndburn recommended for approval

A proposal to build sports facilities and up to 250 new homes in Great Harwood, Lancashire, has been recommended for approval by planning officers at Hyndburn Council.

The local planning committee is considering a scheme, submitted by Preston-based PWA Planning on behalf of construction firm Reilly Developments Ltd, that includes detached homes, semi-detached houses and bungalows on the 17.2-acre Lyndon playing fields site.

Furthermore, the plans outline a proposal to create four sports pitches along with changing and parking facilities on a second site, covering 12.3 acres, around 100m away.

If the development is given the green light, an existing children’s play area on Lyndon fields will be revamped and extended.

PWA Planning’s Katie Delaney said: “This development marks a significant investment for Great Harwood and the wider borough, giving Hyndburn a boost in terms of the number of larger family homes.

“We’ve taken on board the concerns of local residents about the loss of playing fields and the existing football pitches will be replaced with significantly upgraded facilities on the second site, bringing a wide range of community benefits.”

The council-owned land where the homes will be built is currently used by Great Harwood Rovers Football Club. If built, the four FA-standard pitches and changing rooms would be used by the club’s 20 youth and junior teams.

A decision is likely to be made this Wednesday (October 21).