Livesey Parish Council urges the borough for more backing against a large warehouse plan that could impact the community.
Livesey: The parish council is really pushing for more help from the borough. They’re concerned about a big warehouse development planned near Junction 3 of the M65.
At a recent meeting at Feniscowles Community Hall, locals gathered to discuss the new transport hub. It’s just over the border in Chorley borough, and folks are worried about what it means for their area.
Blackburn with Darwen Council’s strategic growth director, Martin Kelly, didn’t raise any objections to the plan. But he did mention that the developers need to cough up £1.27 million for local projects.
This money would go towards improving the Leeds and Liverpool Canal Towpath, making pedestrian crossings safer on Livesey Branch Road, and enhancing The Sappi Link Road.
Interestingly, no representatives from Blackburn with Darwen Council showed up to the meeting. Even Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain didn’t respond to the invite, which left parish council chair Les Cade feeling frustrated.
He expressed his concerns, asking, “What’s going on with Blackburn with Darwen? Where’s our protection?” It’s clear he feels let down by the council’s lack of support.
During the meeting, a flyer was shared that highlighted the warehouse would be about 30 meters tall, which is roughly 10 stories. Many believe it would ruin the countryside’s openness for locals and visitors alike.
There’s also worry about increased HGV traffic on local roads, which weren’t built to handle such heavy vehicles. One HGV driver at the meeting shared his thoughts on the parking situation, saying it’s already tough to find safe spots to park overnight.
He pointed out that many industrial estates have double yellow lines, leaving drivers with few options. This could lead to trucks parking all over Livesey Branch Road and nearby streets.
Another attendee, Lancashire County Councillor Alan Cullens, raised a valid point. He mentioned that while the current plan is for two warehouses, there’s a good chance more could pop up in the future.
He believes this land is too valuable for just two warehouses and expects the developers to keep pushing for more. The application details can be found on Chorley Council’s planning website if anyone wants to check it out.
