Mowbreck Lane Planning Application APPEAL DISMISSED!

*** Final Judgement Full Report (click here) ***
A housing developer’s appeal against the government’s decision to reject controversial plans to build 264 homes in Wesham has been dismissed. In 2008, Metacre Ltd, owned by one of Lancashire’s richest men Trevor Hemmings, who also owns Preston North End FC, submitted plans to build 264 affordable homes to the north of Mowbreck Lane. In November that year, residents launched a campaign against the plans which would have resulted in the loss of green belt land. The plans were unanimously refused by Fylde Council last year but the developer then appealed the decision and a planning enquiry was launched. Secretary of State Eric Pickles quashed the appeal but Metacre took the case to the High Court. His Honour Judge Sycamore, sitting as a deputy judge of the High Court, has now dismissed Metacre’s challenge to the Secretary of State. The judgement said: “Although it was recognised that there is a housing need (Eric Pickles) was not persuaded that such need outweighed or justified development in the countryside.” It added: “The correct approach was adopted. “I dismiss this statutory challenge.” CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FINAL JUDGEMENT REPORT