Plans to bring new homes to the former Woodlands site in Chorley have been given the green light.
The council has approved the sale of the site and the appointment of a housebuilder, paving the way for it to be transformed into a new residential development of up to 97 homes, 30% of which will be affordable housing to help meet local demand. The new homes are expected to support a range of people, including families and first-time buyers.
The site had been vacant for a number of years and since acquiring the site in December 2023, the council has had to carefully manage the demolition of unsafe and derelict buildings to make the area secure and ready for future development, following a fire that occurred. It has also managed anti-social behaviour, secured the site, obtained planning permission (December 2025), and has now progressed to tendering the site for sale, meaning that it can now be brought back into positive use for the community.
With the council already securing outline planning permission, it will now be for the housebuilder to submit the detailed stage of the development for planning, in line with what has already been approved.
Leader of Chorley Council, Councillor Alistair Bradley, said: “We’re really pleased that we are able to make effective use of a brownfield site as the former Woodlands site has stood empty for years so it is great that we can now bring it back into use.
“We acquired the site from Lancashire County Council after they were unable to find a use for it.
“From the outset, the intention has been to deliver new homes on the site, supporting local housing needs and aligning with our emerging Local Plan.
“This is a positive step for the area, helping to deliver much-needed homes, including affordable housing, and creating a safer, more welcoming environment for residents.”
“We continue to retain a further element of the wider site with an aspiration to develop commercial/training provision that can add to the economic growth of Chorley in the future on a site that is well connected to other parts of the borough.”
FAQs
1. Why did the council purchase the Woodlands site?
The council purchased the site to help shape how the land was used in a way that benefits the local community. By taking a proactive approach, we can ensure any future development aligns with local needs, priorities, and planning policies.
2. Why are new homes being proposed on this site?
Like many areas across the country, Chorley has a growing need for new homes – particularly affordable housing and homes that meet the needs of young families, older people, and key workers. The proposed development at Woodlands would help contribute to meeting this need in a planned and sustainable way and as part of the plans, 30% of the homes will be affordable housing, helping to meet local household needs and ensuring a mix of homes for people in the borough.
3. What is the need for this type of development?
Supporting new home building in the borough is important, and this development helps to make sure it is being done in a sustainable way. By making the former Woodlands site available, we are prioritising land that is already suitable for development, which in turn helps protect other areas that may be less appropriate, including greenfield and Green Belt sites.
4. Was there a public consultation?
Yes. Community consultation is an important part of the process. Residents, businesses, and stakeholders were invited to share their views – This ensures local voices are heard and considered before any of the detailed plans were submitted.
5. How did the council ensure any development was sustainable and in keeping with the local area?
Any future development needed to meet local and national planning policies, including those related to sustainability, green space, transport, and design. We’re committed to protecting the character of the area while addressing housing needs.
6. What about traffic and local infrastructure?
These issues were taken seriously and assessed as part of the planning process. This included reviewing the impact on local roads, schools, GP services, and public transport. Any necessary improvements would be considered as part of the development.
7. Will any green space or woodland be lost?
Protecting the environment is a key priority. Plans will seek to retain as much green space as possible, and include landscaping, biodiversity, and tree planting where appropriate whilst complying with policies and regulations on Biodiversity Net Gain. Detailed assessments will be carried out before any development takes place.