Atkinson Kirby and 52 Derby Street
An exciting development opportunity in
Ormskirk
The District Council are looking to redevelop a prime site close
to Ormskirk town centre. The majority of the 3.9 hectare site
contains the former Atkinson and Kirby timber yard; it also covers
the Council offices at 52 Derby Street.
Background
The catalyst for the scheme was the relocation of the Atkinson
and Kirby firm in 2005 to Burscough Street. Their vacated former
site lies next to the Council's offices and car park at 52 Derby
Street. The Council offices are coming towards the end of their
useful life and the Council will soon face a choice between major
refurbishment, or a total redevelopment of its premises.
Dealing with these two pieces of land together provides an
opportunity to carry out a mixed-use regeneration scheme. If the
sites were to be considered separately, the possible uses on each
would be more limited by planning policies than if dealing with
them as a single unit.
What might be built?
Possible options for the site are housing - including affordable
housing; offices - perhaps involving a relocation of the present
Council offices; business /light industrial use; and/or community
facilities. Heavy industry or major retail are not considered
appropriate uses for any part of the site.
It will be important to avoid unacceptable harm to the amenity
of nearby residents, in terms of noise /light /air, etc. pollution,
levels of traffic generated and the visual impact of any
scheme.
Development Brief
The Development Brief sets out the key issues to be taken into
account when considering the site's redevelopment. This latest
version of the brief has been shaped following consultation in
January 2006 with residents living next to, or near to the site.
(The comments received during the first consultation exercise are
included as an appendix to the brief.) The brief was approved by
the Council's Cabinet in June 2006.
What happens next?
The Council is currently considering the timescales and
financial implications of the scheme with a view to drawing up more
detailed proposals. When these are ready, a second round of
"pre-application" consultation will be launched. The community will
be invited to provide further input into the proposals.
In the meantime, if you have any questions about the proposals
please contact John Ryding, the Project Manager for the scheme, on
01695 585022.
Email: john.ryding@westlancsdc.gov.uk