St Helens Borough Council’s planning committee has approved the construction of 445 new homes in Haydock and Blackbrook, UK, as part of the David Wilson Homes and Barratt Homes development.
The development, located on land south of Florida Farm, is in line with the St Helens Borough Local Plan and will feature a mix of housing options comprising houses, apartments, and bungalows, with 30% categorised as affordable.
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The council has secured more than £3.62m ($4.7m) in Section 106 developer contributions.
These funds will enhance local services, including early-years, post-16, and special educational needs and disabilities education, healthcare, sustainable travel infrastructure, and sports facilities at King George V Playing Fields.
Environmental sustainability has been a key focus, with biodiversity net gain enhancements planned for the site.
A flood risk assessment and drainage strategy have also been submitted, receiving no objections from the Lead Local Flood Authority and the Environment Agency.
St Helens Borough Council executive director of place services Lisa Harris said: “The development of this site is a crucial part of the council’s strategy to provide a range of much-needed high-quality housing, including a high proportion of affordable units to help address the current housing crisis. It not only meets the requirements set out in the Local Plan and Housing Strategy but will also contribute to the provision of essential community infrastructure enhancements in the locality.
“The development proposals have been adjusted through the lifetime of the application to ensure high standards of landscaping, street planting and environmental quality. It will also deliver significant social and economic benefits aligned with both local and national policies, including the government’s updated housing delivery goals.”
Last month, the council announced upcoming demolition work to make way for the new St Helens Transport Interchange and Gamble Square in the town centre.
