S&L Planning Consultants has secured a planning appeal for regional housebuilder Oakmere Homes at its seven-acre Whalley project.

In 2024, Ribble Valley Council’s planning committee had initially rejected the scheme on the Accrington Road due to its perceived lack of affordable housing and potential impact on the local highways, even though the site had already been given planning approval for redevelopment into residential housing.

However, following an appeal by S&L Planning Consultants and a hearing on the 10^th September this year, the Council has decided not to defend its decision to refuse the scheme against the recommendation of the planning officer.

Graham Love of S&L Planning Consultants had stated that the provision of affordable housing on site or via contributions through the planning process would make the scheme unviable, a view Ribble Valley’s planning department agreed with.

Following the appeal, the Planning Inspectorate has now granted the housebuilder approval for the scheme. Inspector Timothy Burnham gave limited support to the Ribble Valley Council’s argument regarding affordable housing provision and stated that there would be “no conflict” with the local authority’s development plan.  Furthermore, the inspector added that there would be “no significant adverse impact on the safe operation of the immediate highway network”.

Oakmere Homes, which has been operating for more than 40 years and has delivered numerous high-quality schemes in Cumbria and Lancashire, will now continue with plans to build the 74-home scheme, comprising 57 one-and two-bed apartments for the over-55 market and 17 three- and four-bed houses.

John Jackson, land and planning director at Oakmere Homes, commented on the appeal win. He said: “The decision reflects the robust planning process we’ve followed and the quality of the homes we plan to deliver for the local community in Whalley. We look forward to progressing with the development and continuing to contribute to the area’s housing needs.”

Graham Love, managing director of S&L Planning Consultants, added: “The appeal’s decision is a testament to the strength of the planning case we presented on behalf of Oakmere Homes. The decision underscores the importance of working collaboratively with local authorities and planning officers to ensure developments are both sustainable and beneficial for communities. We’re pleased the Planning Inspectorate has recognised the merits of this scheme, which will help meet the demand for quality housing in the Ribble Valley.”