Plans for traveller site on Blackpool’s Marton Moss

Plans have been put forward to set up an enlarged traveller site in Blackpool’s Marton Moss area.

An application has been lodged with Blackpool Council planners for the proposals.

The applicants are seeking permission for use of land as a residential traveller site on land north of School Road and east of Midgeland Road, with four pitches, each with one static caravan or chalet, one touring caravan, one ancillary greenhouse structure, associated amenity space, car parking and shared access off School Road.

The area in question is considered the largest area of green space in Blackpool and is a semi-rural in character.

Although the land in question is currently in use as a traveller site, at present it is much smaller than that being proposed, which will include landscaping.

The application lists the applicants as Boswell, Beal and Boswell-Jones, and the agents are listed as Neil Pike Architects, of Bolton.

A supporting statement from Neil Pike Architects says the proposals will suit the overall site more appropriately than a previous, unrelated proposal to build bungalows on the site.

It says: “Whilst the ongoing regeneration and gradual evolution of this part of the area is to be welcomed in principle, it is nevertheless important, and indeed central to the consideration of this Application, to recognise that this proposal does not represent an incongruous or unrelated form of development.

“Rather, it continues and responds positively to a long-established pattern of land use, which has played a fundamental role in shaping the character, function and identity of the locality.

“In this context, the proposed development is considered to sit comfortably within the established narrative of the site and its surroundings, respecting its historical use whilst also contributing to its sensitive and progressive transition.

“The Application proposal has therefore been conceived in a manner which responds positively to the established surrounding rather than introducing an overtly suburban form of built development.”

The application was lodged in June, with new papers added within the application lodged on July 28.

It is currently pending consideration by planners.