48 homes plan for Earby's Brook Shed engine house

Plans have been submitted to Pendle Council to build two two-bed, 38 three-bed, and eight four-bedroom homes on the site in New Road, Earby.

The applicant, Gleeson Homes, is seeking to retain Brook Shed Engine House but change its use to a ‘community space’, and erect 48 homes on the surrounding site.

The plans will also aim to reduce the height of an existing chimney stack, which is a distinctive local landmark, as well as reduce the size of the former weaving shed, and removing the boiler house and water tank.

The plans (Image: Council)

Submitted alongside the application was a planning statement which said the project, being proposed on brownfield land already earmarked for development, will have a positive effect upon the character and appearance of the area.

It added that the development would provide a housing mix "which responds positively to the highest priority for large homes", protect the natural environment, have appropriately designed houses and landscaping, and have sufficient off-street parking.

Additionally, the building of the homes would create employment, with an estimated 36 temporary jobs supported for every year of the build.

The site is approximately 150 metres from the local shopping centre, 200m from bus stops and Rushton Avenue Playground; and 800m from Earby Springfield Primary School.

There is no affordable housing planned for the development.

The planning statement reads: “The site was formally used as a cotton-weaving mill and was most recently occupied by local firm Johnson and Johnson until 2000, when they consolidated operations in Gargrave.

“The site has lain vacant since that time and in 2010 the weaving shed, and boiler house were demolished.

“Remaining buildings and structures on the site include the engine house, chimney stack, northern and eastern walls of the former weaving shed, northern walls of the boiler house, and water tank.

“In its current form the site detracts from the quality of the wider built environment.

“Special regard has been had to the built qualities and character of the area through the retention and repurpose of the engine house as a community space, which fronts onto New Road.”

Comments are being accepted by Pendle Council up until October 19. Anyone wishing to comment on the application can do so online or in writing.