Homes revamp hope for town’s eyesore

The former Kwik Save store on St David’s Road South in St Annes has been an eyesore in the town for several years, having become overgrown by weeds and surrounded by metal fencing.

But now plans for the former supermarket have been lodged with Fylde Council by Great Places Housing Group to build 15 homes including a mix of two and three bedroom properties, with the proposed development welcomed by community leaders.

John Moxham, co-ordinator of St Annes Chamber of Trade, said: “We have a Sainsbury’s, an Aldi, a Tesco and a Booths on the way.

“In the past I would have wanted a supermarket there but the landscape has changed so much of late. The need has disappeared.

“To be honest I think we need something on there. I think it is a good move.”

Kensington Developments bought the site in 2007, but sold the land to Great Places Housing Group earlier this year for an undisclosed amount.

The land has been empty since March 2006 and has become an eyesore, not helped by other businesses in the are closing down – a hairdressers, takeaway and clothes shop have all moved out in the last eight years.

Coun Barbara Nash welcomed the news.

She said: “It looks very promising. The actual plans look very, very good.

“As long as they do not change them we are happy.

“I have spoken to residents in the area and they seem very pleased with things.

“It will lift the area completely.”

Fylde Council planning officer Kieran Birch has recommended the application is approved.

He said: “The proposal is acceptable in principle and offers a high quality design in a mixed residential andcommercial area within the settlement of St Annes.

“It is considered an acceptable form of development in this location.”

Fylde Council’s development management committee meeting will meet on January 7 from 10 at the Town Hall in St Annes to discuss the plans.