An outline planning application for the former Woodlands Conference Centre in Chorley has been submitted by Chorley Council for a new residential development of up to 97 homes on the site.
As part of the proposed development, 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.
Located in a well-connected area, with good transport links, the site presents an opportunity to bring back the space to active use, supporting the delivery of high-quality sustainable homes.
In addition to the proposed residential development, the land to the east of the site has been reserved for alternative use, with the intention that it will accommodate a mix of education and employment use, contributing to the area’s long term social and economic development. The council bought the site to make sure that the land will be used in a way that delivers long-term benefits for the borough – creating educational and employment opportunities for future growth to support and benefit the local community.
Director of Property and Planning at Chorley Council, Gayle Wootton, said: “This development represents a positive step forward in delivering much-needed new homes in Chorley, including affordable options for residents.
“By making effective use of a brownfield site, Chorley Council is helping to meet housing demands in a sustainable way, while also allowing flexibility for future uses of the wider area.”
This is an outline planning application, meaning details of the layout, designs and access will be addressed in future planning applications, subject to approval.
Should the application be approved, the council intends to sell the site to a private housebuilder who will develop the plans in line with the outline permission, ensuring delivery of the proposed scheme in a timely and efficient manner.
The application in now available to view on chorley.gov.uk/planningapplication and search for reference number 25/00476/CB3MAJ in the planning portal.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback as part of the consultation process.
FAQs
1. Why has the council purchased the Woodlands site?
The council has purchased the site to help shape how the land is 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 an ‘outline planning application’?
An outline planning application is the first step in the planning process. It sets out the principles of what could be developed on the site – for example, the number and type of homes – but not the final details. If approved, more detailed ‘reserved matters’ applications would follow.
4. Has a final decision been made about what will be built?
No. The current stage is about gathering feedback and establishing whether the principle of development is acceptable. No final designs or layouts have been confirmed. Your feedback will help shape any future plans.
5. Will there be a public consultation?
Yes. Community consultation is an important part of the process. Residents, businesses, and stakeholders will be invited to share their views. This ensures local voices are heard and considered before any detailed plans are submitted.
6. How will the council ensure any development is sustainable and in keeping with the local area?
Any future development would need 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.
7. What about traffic and local infrastructure?
These issues are taken seriously and will be assessed as part of the planning process. This includes reviewing the impact on local roads, schools, GP services, and public transport. Any necessary improvements would be considered as part of the development.
8. 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.
9. How can I have my say?
The application in now available to view on chorley.gov.uk/planningapplication and search for reference number 25/00476/CB3MAJ in the planning portal. We encourage everyone to take part and share their views. If the outline planning application is approved, we will be sharing details about how to get involved in the consultation process via the council’s website, social media and through local channels.
10. When will construction start, if approved?
If the outline application is approved, further detailed planning applications would need to follow. Construction would not begin until all planning requirements are met. We are still in the early stages, and there will be multiple opportunities for public involvement.